Have you ever wondered how the magical world of Wicked comes to life on the big screen? In a special behind-the-scenes look, reporter Kirbie Johnson delves into the intricate process of creating the stunning wigs, special effects makeup, and more that bring the beloved characters of Wicked to life. Johnson recently sat down with Frances Hannon, the talented hair and makeup designer behind the iconic looks of the characters in the Wicked films.
Frances Hannon, a decorated artist who has earned both an Oscar and a BAFTA for her work, faced the monumental task of translating the enchanting characters of Wicked from the Broadway stage to the silver screen. With the first film already released and the second installment set to debut in 2025, Hannon had the challenge of designing the hair, makeup, and prosthetics for over 3,000 background actors as well as the main characters.
One of the key challenges Hannon encountered was adapting the appearances of the lead characters, Glinda and Elphaba, for the film adaptation. Unlike the stage actors who traditionally embody these roles, the film cast presented unique features that required careful consideration. For instance, Ariana Grande, who plays Glinda in the movie, has dark hair and eyes, unlike the character’s usual light features. Similarly, Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba needed to look authentically green rather than just painted green to transport viewers into the fantastical world of Wicked.
In the interview, Hannon reveals the inspiration behind Ariana Grande’s look, the necessity of prosthetic ears for Cynthia Erivo’s transformation, and even hints at a hairstyle that Grande won’t be sporting in the film.
As you immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Wicked, discover the magic behind the scenes as Frances Hannon brings these iconic characters to life with her creative vision and exceptional talent.
