Fans Furious Over Cut Shirtless Scene in ‘Wicked: For Good’
A recently revealed deleted scene from 'Wicked: For Good' featuring Jonathan Bailey and Ethan Slater has sparked outrage among fans, who are demanding answers and a director’s cut. Discover what was left out and why it’s causing such a stir.
When a previously unseen scene from Wicked: For Good surfaced online, fans were quick to voice their frustration. The clip, which shows Jonathan Bailey and Ethan Slater shirtless during a lively day in the woods, was cut from the final film, leaving many viewers feeling shortchanged. The movie, which debuted last November, has since faced a wave of disappointment from those who believe they missed out on a memorable moment.
Social Media Backlash Erupts
After Entertainment Tonight posted the deleted footage, social media lit up with reactions. Fans lamented the loss, with one user declaring,
Deleting this was actually a crime against humanity. ET thank you for your service because I am NOT okay right now. 💀
Another chimed in,
We were robbed! Petition for the director 's cut with all the deleted scenes🔥
The montage featured Elphaba, Glinda, Fiyero, Boq, and Nessarose enjoying themselves outdoors, with Bailey and Slater showing off their physiques. The scene quickly became a hot topic, with many demanding to know why it was left on the cutting room floor.
One fan tweeted,
I think This deleted scene was cute & The best part was Jonathan Bailey (Prince Fiyero) taking off His shirt & Chop The Tree with AX But at the same time I got ask Why did John M. Chun cut That scene??? It shouldn't been cut!!! 🤔🤦♀️
Others simply couldn’t believe the decision, with a post reading,
no way they axed the shirtless bros scene
Director’s Reasoning and Cast Insights
Director Jon M. Chu addressed the controversy in a previous interview, explaining that he filmed the scene for the first installment but held back on releasing it, unsure if it might fit better in the sequel. He said, “There’s certain footage that I can’t release because I don’t know if I’m going to use it yet.” This left fans speculating about what else might be hidden away.
Bowen Yang, who also appears in the film, shared on a podcast that the scene was originally meant to take place between the musical number Popular and a classroom sequence. He described how Fiyero appeared in his “full shirtless glory” while Boq, feeling self-conscious, decided to join in and remove his shirt as well. The moment was intended to highlight the camaraderie among the characters, a dynamic that fans now feel was missing from the final cut.
Digital Release Promises More Deleted Content
With the uproar over the missing scene, attention has turned to the upcoming digital release of Wicked: For Good. Reports suggest that two versions will be available, one of which will include a sing-along edition, director’s commentary, a behind-the-scenes documentary, and six deleted scenes—among them, the much-discussed friendship montage.
The film, directed by Jon M. Chu and distributed by Universal Pictures, premiered on November 21, 2025, and currently holds a 67% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Fans eager to see what they missed can look forward to the digital release on December 30, where they may finally get a glimpse of the scenes that sparked such a passionate response.