Marissa Bode on Wicked: For Good’s Impact

Wicked: For Good star Marissa Bode detailed how the films have changed her life during an exclusive interview with E! News at the movie’s Nov. 17 premiere in New York City. 

Marissa Bode will carry this feeling her whole life long. 

The actress behind Nessa Rose—sister to Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba—in the Wicked film duology shared insight into her world since part one premiered in Nov. 2024, as well as the impact being involved in this project has had on her as a person.

“I think the movie did a really good job of showing openness to change and reflecting and seeing the world outside of your bubble,” Marissa reflected to E! News’ Justin Sylvester at Wicked: For Good’s Nov. 17 premiere in New York city. “That’s something that I hold very close to me.” 

Marissa—who, like her character, is a wheelchair user—also said, “I think for a lot of kids, this might be their first time seeing somebody with a disability. So to be that, and for this to be their first view, is really special.”

Because indeed, while Wicked already had a loyal fan base in its musical form, its new iteration as feature films has exponentially increased its reach, creating what Marissa admitted has been an “overwhelming” response.

And yet, “The story means so many different things to so many different people,” she added. “And the connection people make with various characters—I think that’s such a true testament to the art that has been Wicked.”

After all, Marissa herself has been a longtime lover of Wicked and its many characters. But while she plays Nessa onscreen, it was the greenified Elphaba who first captured her heart in real life.

“She’s just someone who is so bold, who knows herself in a lot of ways, and doesn’t let outside views sway her,” Marissa explained. “And I really admire that in her. I love a strong character who knows what she wants.”

Her costar Jonathan Bailey—Fiyero on screens—also reflected on Wicked’s message of acceptance, something that he said has always resonated as someone who grew up being made fun of for his sexuality.