Amanda Seyfried has candidly revealed the demanding and extensive audition process she undertook for the role of Glinda in the 2024 film adaptation of "Wicked," a part she ultimately did not secure. Seyfried, a highly acclaimed actress known for roles in "Mamma Mia!" and her Emmy-winning portrayal of Elizabeth Holmes in "The Dropout," engaged in a remarkable six rounds of auditions for the coveted role. She has discussed this challenging experience on various platforms, including Josh Horowitz’s "Happy Sad Confused" and most recently on "Backstage’s In the Envelope" podcast, an episode that aired on June 19.

Her pursuit of the Glinda role, which eventually went to pop star Ariana Grande, underscored Seyfried's long-standing reputation for aggressively auditioning for parts she deeply desires. She matched a personal record, having previously auditioned six times for 2012's "Les Misérables." The "Wicked" film itself is an adaptation of the immensely popular stage musical that premiered on Broadway in 2003, which in turn is based on Gregory Maguire's 1995 novel "Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West." The characters, including Galinda Upland who transforms into Glinda the Good, originate from L. Frank Baum’s classic children’s book "The Wizard of Oz," first published in 1900.

Speaking about her commitment, Seyfried told the "In the Envelope" podcast that despite her incredibly busy schedule, she dedicated herself fully to the auditions. "I was busy. I barely had time to do it, but I made it work. I worked my ass off for years and years and years on that music," she stated. She openly admitted to possessing a competitive streak, describing it as a "healthy sort of competition" she holds with herself. A significant highlight of her audition journey was the invaluable opportunity to sing alongside Cynthia Erivo, who portrays Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, in the film. Seyfried noted that this experience solidified her vocal confidence, expressing, "I've never felt that solid in my voice than I did at the auditions."

The rigorous audition period for "Wicked" coincided with Seyfried's demanding work on "The Dropout," a limited series that earned her critical acclaim and an Emmy Award. She recounted juggling both projects, often sacrificing weekends to attend "Wicked" auditions. Reflecting on the physical and emotional toll, she said, "I literally bent over backwards while playing the hardest role of my life." Despite not landing the part, Seyfried maintains a profoundly positive outlook, believing that "everything happens for a reason." She has no regrets, affirming that the process taught her how far she had come as a singer and that the experience of performing with Erivo was a reward in itself. Her family continues to sing "Defying Gravity" at home, a testament to her enduring connection with the musical.