Jon M. Chu Misses 'Wicked' Premiere for Birth

The Los Angeles premiere of the musical fantasy film 'Wicked', directed by Jon M. Chu, coincided with the birth of his fifth child, leading him to miss the event to be with his wife, Kristin Hodge. Despite his absence, the premiere was a star-studded affair featuring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, who dressed to resemble their characters Glinda and Elphaba, respectively. Grande wore a pink gingham dress by Thom Browne, while Erivo dazzled in a green Louis Vuitton gown, both outfits nodding to their 'Wicked' roles. Chu expressed joy over his dual 'babies'—the film and his newborn daughter—and shared his excitement online, complimenting his talented cast and crew. The film, based on the popular Broadway musical, will hit theaters on November 22, with a second part expected in 2025.