Fans of Wicked are buzzing with questions, the most important one being: does Nessa die in the film? Her story is a blend of tragedy, pivotal decisions, and dramatic twists that shape the narrative. As Wicked: Part 2 approaches, her fate remains a key point of intrigue.
Here’s a concise breakdown of her role, major events in Part 1, and the spoiler-filled answer to Does Nessa die in Wicked?
Does Nessarose aka Nessa die in Wicked?
Nessarose, also known as Nessa, plays a significant role in Wicked, both as Elphaba’s younger sister and as a symbol of personal and political tragedy.
In Part 1 of the Wicked movie and its corresponding section in the musical, Nessarose becomes the governor of Munchkinland after their father’s death. Born with physical disabilities, she is initially portrayed as vulnerable and dependent on others, particularly Elphaba.
To assist her, Elphaba enchants a pair of silver shoes, enabling Nessa to walk. However, her newfound mobility does not bring her the happiness she seeks, and Nessa grows increasingly authoritarian in her rule. Her unrequited love for Boq and her attempts to control him lead to further alienation.
As based on the Broadway musical adaptation and other adaptations of The Wizard of Oz, Nessarose’s arc takes a darker turn, culminating in her death. Her desperation to make Boq love her leads her to use a spell from Elphaba’s magical Grimmerie. The spell backfires disastrously, shrinking Boq’s heart and forcing Elphaba to turn him into the Tin Man to save his life.
This incident leaves Nessa emotionally shattered and further isolates her from those she once sought affection and loyalty from. Madame Morrible later orchestrates Nessa’s death to manipulate Elphaba, dropping Dorothy’s house on her during a tornado. This act not only kills Nessa but also sets the stage for the conflict between Elphaba and Dorothy over the magical silver shoes, which are now in Dorothy’s possession.
Nessarose’s death aligns with her characterization as the Wicked Witch of the East from The Wizard of Oz. Her tragic demise underscores the themes of misunderstanding and manipulation central to Wicked. Additionally, her death deepens the conflict between Elphaba and the other characters, ultimately driving the story toward its dramatic climax.
