What if Glinda the Good Witch wasn't always so good? A recently unearthed deleted scene from Wicked: Part One (2024) reveals a surprising dynamic between Galinda Upland (Ariana Grande-Butera) and her so-called friends, Pfannee (Bowen Yang) and ShenShen (Bronwyn James). This fleeting moment, cut from Jon M. Chu's blockbuster adaptation, offers a glimpse into the manipulative forces that shape Glinda's journey—and raises questions about the true nature of her relationships.
The Scene That Almost Was
In the deleted scene, Pfannee and ShenShen approach Galinda at Shiz University, claiming they met her at a “twirling academy.” After a brief, awkward twirling routine, Galinda hugs them and asks how they're doing “truthfully.” Pfannee's response—“I've been through”—hints at a deeper, unspoken history. But what's really going on here?
Director Jon M. Chu described Pfannee and ShenShen as Glinda's “publicists,” not just her sidekicks. As Bowen Yang explained in an interview with Attitude UK, these characters aren't just there for comic relief. They're catalysts, pushing Glinda toward her worst impulses. “They're motivating all these nefarious things Glinda ends up doing in the film,” Yang said, “even though she is good.”
The Performers Behind the Roles
Bowen Yang, a standout on Saturday Night Live since 2019, brings his signature wit to Pfannee, while Bronwyn James (Harlots, The Dig) infuses ShenShen with a sly, calculating edge. Together, they create a duo that's equal parts charming and unsettling.
What's Next in Wicked: For Good?
With Wicked: For Good set to release in November 2025, fans are eager to see how Pfannee and ShenShen's storylines will unfold. Yang teased that his character “gets his just desserts,” suggesting a satisfying—if not entirely happy—ending for these schoolyard bullies.
The Bigger Picture
This deleted scene isn't just a fun Easter egg; it's a window into Glinda's moral complexity. Pfannee and ShenShen represent the societal pressures that shape her into the Glinda we know—and perhaps, the Glinda we love to question.
Conclusion
The deleted scene from Wicked: Part One is more than a footnote; it's a key to understanding Glinda's transformation. As we look ahead to Wicked: For Good, one thing is clear: the road to becoming the Good Witch of the North is paved with tough choices, questionable friends, and a whole lot of twirling.
Personal Impressions
As a fan of both the Wicked musical and Jon M. Chu's cinematic vision, I found this deleted scene fascinating. It adds depth to Glinda's character, showing how even the most beloved figures can be shaped by toxic influences. Bowen Yang and Bronwyn James are perfectly cast, bringing humor and menace to their roles. My only critique? I wish the scene had made the final cut—it's a gem that deserves to be seen.
Do you think Glinda's relationships with Pfannee and ShenShen make her a more relatable character—or do they tarnish her “good witch” image?
