Kristin Chenoweth Talks About Idina Menzel and Their Bond
There’s something intriguing in the air.
Kristin Chenoweth recently addressed the ongoing speculation about a rift with her former co-star Idina Menzel, stemming from the original Broadway run of *Wicked*, which debuted almost two decades ago. “We have such different processes, so of course there’s going to be rumors, right?” Chenoweth, 57, mentioned in a recent interview.
Reflecting on their journey, she noted, “Just her and me. We know what we went through to get here.” Chenoweth originated the role of Glinda, while Menzel starred as Elphaba in the 2003 production.
Continuing on the camaraderie, Chenoweth described their relationship as reminiscent of siblings. “We would die for each other,” she said. “It’s like sisters. Are sisters always perfect? I mean, it’s family. That’s the best way I can describe it.”
Speculations about a feud began during the original *Wicked* run 22 years ago, which intensified the following year when both actresses received Tony nominations—but it was Menzel who clinched the award for Best Actress in a Musical.
In a joint interview with a publication in 2023, they tackled these rumors, with Chenoweth admitting, “Certainly, as a sister, I got on her nerves sometimes. I get nervous myself most of the time. But you know what? No one but us can understand what we’ve been through.”
Menzel echoed this sentiment, confirming, “I’m glad that no matter what’s going on in our lives, we can always realize it at the end of the show. We always look at each other and say, ‘I understand you. You understand me. We’re in this together. We love each other.’”
The two actresses were seen together at various events, including the *Wicked* premiere party in 2003 and a recent 20th-anniversary celebration.
In a part of her discussion with *The Hollywood Reporter*, Chenoweth also touched on the recent film adaptation of *Wicked*, which had Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo in the lead roles. The film, released last November, included special cameos from Chenoweth and Menzel, specifically created for them.
When asked if she might appear again in the future, Chenoweth was uncertain. “I don’t know if I can talk about that,” she hesitated. “I don’t think there’s anything wrong with saying no. Not really.” She expressed anticipation about the sequel *Wicked: For Good*, set to release later this month. “I feel like, in a way, we did what we had to do and handed her the broom and cane,” she said, bringing Grande into the conversation. “I can’t wait to see it. I know a lot about this movie from my daughter, so I can’t wait.”
