NBC has signed on Queen Latifah and Mary J. Blige for its live adaptation of The Wiz. Latifah will play the titular character while Blige is cast as the Wicked Witch of the West.
Latifah has a history in musicals, including starring in movie musical adaptations Chicago in 2002 and 2007's Hairspray. Blige is no stranger to the world of musicals herself, and was featured in the movie musical Rock of Ages.
The two join cast member Stephanie Mills who is slated to play Auntie Em. NBC is still searching for a newcomer to play the role of Dorothy.
The Wiz premieres live Thursday, Dec 3 on NBC.
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