How Having His Own Band Prepared Jeff Goldblum for “Once in a Lifetime” Wicked Role (EXCLUSIVE)

How Having His Own Band Prepared Jeff Goldblum for “Once in a Lifetime” Wicked Role (EXCLUSIVE)

As a seasoned gamer with a penchant for both digital and real-life adventures, I’ve been captivated by the enigmatic charm of Jeff Goldblum all my gaming years. From battling velociraptors in Jurassic Park to fending off alien invasions in Independence Day, his charisma has always added an extra layer of excitement to these cinematic quests. But it’s his lesser-known role as a jazz pianist and band leader that truly resonates with me – after all, who doesn’t love a multi-talented hero?


It takes brains, heart, and courage to be an elite entertainer — and Jeff Goldblum’s got all three!

Beyond his illustrious acting roles in iconic Hollywood films such as “Jurassic Park” and “Independence Day”, Goldblum is a talented jazz pianist who has led his band, The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra, for over 30 years. Named after a friend of his mother’s from the Pittsburgh suburb where he was raised, this charming woman, Mildred Snitzer, inspired the group’s name. When director Jon M. Chu (of “Crazy Rich Asians” and “In the Heights”) needed someone fitting to portray the Wizard of Oz in Universal’s dual-film adaptation of the popular “Wicked” stage musical, his decision was straightforward.

According to Goldblum, he shared his love for music with NBC Insider. He considers himself a music enthusiast and enjoys singing, as evident here. He’s part of a band and has an upcoming album. It was a fulfilling experience because when he was young, he aspired to be an actor and discovered musicals. His parents brought back records from musicals in New York, and his first professional role was in “The Two Gentlemen of Verona” onstage. So, this opportunity felt like a unique, once-in-a-lifetime realization of a childhood dream.

Is the Wizard of Oz the bad guy in Wicked?

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Absolutely, that’s one way to put it. Contrary to his widely admired image across the land of Oz, the Wizard in the play Wicked is actually a prejudiced, power-hungry ruler who aims to exploit Elphaba’s (portrayed by Cynthia Erivo as the future Wicked Witch of the West) powers for evil purposes. He’s quite different from the kind and selfless character we remember from 1939’s portrayal, but this new perspective certainly adds an intriguing twist to a character audiences have long perceived as benevolent.

What was my secret to playing this role so well?” Goldblum responds. “I couldn’t have done it alone. Jon Chu is an exceptional director. I entrusted myself to his guidance… Working alongside Michelle Yeoh, Cynthia Erivo, and Ariana Grande. Gazing into their eyes, how could I not find inspiration?

How can you watch Wicked in theaters?

Starting this Friday, November 22, I’ll be floating above the ordinary at a cinema near you as “Wicked” takes flight! Secure your tickets now for an unforgettable experience that the whole family can enjoy by clicking here! The thrilling continuation, “Wicked Part Two,” is scheduled to return in 2025 on November 21. Don’t miss out on this magical journey!

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2024-11-21 20:01