Warning: This article may contain annoying elements called spoilers.
In the story of Wicked by Gregory Maguire and its stage and film musical adaptation, Fiyero and Elphaba Thropp do not officially marry, but they share a deep romantic relationship.
Important Tip to Always Remember: Wicked is supposed to be a prequel to the widely beloved fantasy classic “The Wizard of Oz”.
In the Novel:
- Fiyero and Elphaba have a complex and secret love affair. Their relationship is central to the plot, but it ends tragically when Fiyero is captured and presumably killed while trying to protect Elphaba.
In the Musical:
- Their relationship is portrayed as a romantic partnership. Though they don’t marry, they run away together after Fiyero chooses Elphaba over Glinda. In the musical’s alternate ending, it’s implied they survive and live in hiding.
In the 2024 musical fantasy film directed by Jon M. Chu:
The 2024 film stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba Thropp and Ariana Grande as Galinda Upland, with Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero BUT it does not follow Maguire’s 1995 novel in all aspects.
- Initial Meeting:
- Fiyero is introduced at Shiz University as a carefree and privileged prince. He is charming, arrogant, and indifferent to social or political issues.
- He initially shows interest in Glinda, but his interactions with Elphaba are marked by teasing and a lack of romantic tension.
- Developing Relationship:
- During their time at Shiz, Fiyero and Elphaba begin to bond. He sees her bravery, intelligence, and kindness, which makes him question his shallow persona.
- Their connection deepens during their time together, particularly on the night they rescue a lion cub from a cage.
- Realization of Love:
- Fiyero eventually realizes he loves Elphaba and chooses her over Glinda, breaking off his engagement to Glinda to stand by Elphaba.
- Tragic Twist:
- Fiyero helps Elphaba escape from capture but is taken by the Wizard’s guards and tied to a torture device called a “cross-like pole.”
- Elphaba attempts a spell to save him, and though it seems he is killed, the ending implies that he is transformed into the Scarecrow instead. The Scarecrow has adventures with Dorothy, the Lion, and the Tin Man in alternate versions but this might not be portrayed in the film.
- Happy Ending (Implied):
- At the end of the musical, after Elphaba fakes her death, Fiyero (as the Scarecrow) reunites with her, and they run away together, presumably to live in hiding. In an alternate ending, the Scarecrow reunites with Elphaba when Dorothy melts him.
Themes of Their Relationship
- Transformation: Both Fiyero and Elphaba undergo significant transformations because of their relationship. Fiyero grows from a superficial prince into a man willing to sacrifice everything for love and justice.
- Defiance: Their love defies societal norms, expectations, and oppressive systems. They are both outcasts who find solace in each other.
- Tragedy and Redemption: In the novel, their relationship ends tragically, highlighting themes of sacrifice and loss. In the musical, their implied survival offers a more hopeful resolution.
