Colman Domingo to Voice the Cowardly Lion in Wicked: For Good

Colman Domingo will voice the Cowardly Lion in Wicked: For Good, bringing his award winning presence to Oz.

Colman Domingo is heading down the yellow brick road. The Emmy winning actor and stage veteran will lend his voice to the Cowardly Lion in Wicked: For Good, the second instalment of Universal’s two part film adaptation of the hit musical. The casting news broke in late October when the Wicked and Domingo Instagram accounts posted a playful clip: a plush lion toy appeared on screen, then Domingo pulled it aside and smiled. “See you in Oz,” he teased, sending fans into a frenzy.

This announcement marks a milestone. Domingo is believed to be the first openly gay actor to portray one of Oz’s core companions in a major studio film, adding an extra layer of resonance to the project. Well, spoilers aside.

From Stage Star to Oz Adventurer

Domingo’s path to the land of Oz has been anything but ordinary. Born in Philadelphia and raised in a close knit family, he began his career in San Francisco’s theatre scene. His autobiographical one man play A Boy and His Soul earned him an Obie Award, and he originated roles in Broadway productions like Passing Strange and The Scottsboro Boys, earning Tony and Olivier nominations. Film audiences know him from If Beale Street Could Talk, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom and Rustin, the last of which brought him an Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of civil rights activist Bayard Rustin. On television he won a Primetime Emmy for his work as Ali on HBO’s Euphoria.

Throughout his career Domingo has been open about his marriage to his long time partner and often speaks about the importance of visibility and representation in the arts. Taking on the Cowardly Lion aligns with his commitment to roles that reflect his values while showcasing his range.

Inside Wicked: For Good

Directed by Jon M. Chu, Wicked: For Good is set to hit theatres on 21 November 2025, one year after Wicked introduces audiences to the friendship and rivalry between Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Ariana Grande). The films adapt Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman’s musical prequel to The Wizard of Oz. Returning cast members for the sequel include Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard, Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, Ethan Slater as Boq and Marissa Bode as Nessarose.

In the stage musical the Lion begins life as a cub in a laboratory, freed by Elphaba and Fiyero. By the time of For Good, he is fully grown. Although the character’s screen time is limited, Chu has said his scenes will carry emotional weight. He personally recruited Domingo via direct message on Instagram, promising the role would not require an extended recording schedule. Domingo’s reply was quick and enthusiastic.

How the Casting Unfolded

The social media reveal was a clean tease without spoilers. Domingo’s short video appeared on a Tuesday morning and quickly racked up views. Fans recognised the actor instantly, and entertainment outlets confirmed the news within hours. Many noted the historical significance of an openly gay actor voicing the Cowardly Lion in a mainstream release. Queer audiences celebrated the move as another step toward authentic representation, while musical theatre fans applauded the choice for bringing warmth and credibility to the ensemble.

Director Chu later joked that he had slid into Domingo’s DMs, calling it a very modern way to cast a part rooted in a story almost 90 years old.

Bringing the Lion to Life

The Cowardly Lion is not a lead in this chapter, but he matters. He arrives with a distinct sound and a point of view, and the film needs an actor who can do a lot with a little. Domingo’s voice has that lived in quality that can turn a short scene into a memorable beat. He has a way of landing a line with humour, then letting a second meaning surface in the pause after it.

Chu has hinted the Lion’s moments are carefully placed rather than plentiful. That suits Domingo. He has built a career on precision, whether it is a two minute exchange on television or a tight monologue on stage. Expect notes of warmth, a hint of mischief and the quiet conviction that makes audiences lean in. It is less about reinventing a classic character and more about making him feel present in this version of Oz.

The choice also fits the tone of Wicked. This is a story about outsiders finding shape and voice. Casting an actor who understands that theme on and off screen gives the Lion a natural centre. If the teaser is any indication, Domingo knows exactly how lightly to wear the role and still leave a mark.