Had Elphaba been raised by her biological father, the narrative of Wicked would have unfolded quite differently, potentially altering key relationships and pivotal plotlines. As one of the central figures in the story, Elphaba could have avoided the infamous title of the Wicked Witch of the West. With the influence of her father’s love and status in Oz, it’s feasible that she would have taken a contrasting route—perhaps even one of opposition against the animals she is known to defend.
Elphaba’s emotional journey is at the heart of Wicked, capturing the audience’s sympathy for her unjust ostracism and disdain, primarily due to her green complexion. If her father had acknowledged her, she may not have faced such derision nor been associated with the marginalized animal community, drastically changing her character’s trajectory. Rather than seeking justice, >Elphaba could have found herself taking a path where moral righteousness is not as significant to her.
A Different Alignment with the Wizard’s Agenda
The Basis of Elphaba’s Empathy





Elphaba’s determination to fight for justice stems largely from her unique perspective as an outcast. Her father’s lack of affection nurtured a complex relationship with her own identity, specifically her green skin, which he attempted to conceal while attributing blame for Nessarose’s disability. Had she been nurtured by the Wizard, the significance of her green skin may have diminished, especially if he had actively celebrated her magical prowess.
Furthermore, the Wizard’s paternal guidance might not have provided the ethical framework necessary for Elphaba to challenge injustice. Instead, he would have likely applauded her magical abilities—encouraging her to assist in his power plays, which would involve employing oppressive measures against animals. Thus, while her innate goodness may remain, it would be far more challenging for Elphaba to confront the Wizard or empathize with animals had she enjoyed a privileged upbringing.
A Diminished Relationship with Animals
Influence of the Wizard on Elphaba’s Views




Despite feeling marginalized and cursed, Elphaba’s kindness is partially fostered by her relationship with Dulcibear, who represents the sympathetic regard she has towards animals—those who treated her with kindness while society cast them aside. If raised by the Wizard, Elphaba might have never cultivated this connection or developed sensitivity toward those who are different.
Moreover, her status as the Wizard’s recognized daughter would likely have reduced her feelings of estrangement, dampening the rebellion and justice-seeking nature that defines her character. Jeff Goldblum’s portrayal of the Wizard absentmindedly dismisses animal welfare and utilizes them for his political maneuvers. Should Elphaba grow up in this environment, she’d inevitably align with the Wizard’s oppressive agenda against the animals, utilizing the powers from the Grimmerie for his nefarious purposes.
Madame Morrible’s Influence from a Young Age
The Impact of Training on Elphaba’s Powers
Elphaba would likely have been groomed from a young age by the Wizard to harness her magic, perhaps under the tutelage of Madame Morrible. As a long-standing ally of the Wizard, it would be plausible for her to mentor Elphaba, recognizing her gifts early on and encouraging her to apply them in service of the Wizard’s ambitions.
While Elphaba’s marginalized experiences at Shiz allow her to resist manipulation, being raised in the comfortable confines of the Wizard’s palace could render her more susceptible. Her magical abilities, often fueled by a desire for justice, might experience a transformation, drawing from darker impulses instead. While she would undeniably be powerful from substantial training, her powers could easily skew toward deceit and manipulation under Morrible’s influence.
A Different Dynamic with Glinda
Glinda’s Interest Would be Motivated by Status





Given her training under Madame Morrible and integral role in the Wizard’s machinations, Elphaba might never have attended Shiz university. Consequently, she might meet Glinda only during select visits from the Uplands to the Emerald City—a journey hinted to be unprecedented for Glinda prior to Elphaba’s invitation. Since Glinda appears unremarkable academically, it’s doubtful the Wizard would seek her out for anything significant.
If Elphaba were to attend Shiz, the context of their acquaintance would shift dramatically. Their connection might not blossom into friendship as their dormitory arrangement was largely orchestrated by Morrible’s machinations following a pivotal display of Elphaba’s powers. If recognized as the Wizard’s daughter, Glinda’s interest could become more status-driven, creating an entirely different dynamic devoid of the compassionate bond that currently defines their friendship.
Potential Shifts in Elphaba & Fiyero’s Romance
Consequences of Status on Romantic Relationships

Alternatively, in a royal academy, the dynamic between Elphaba and Fiyero could introduce a different facet to their romance. If a relationship were to arise, it might resemble Fiyero and Glinda’s—predominantly fueled by social status rather than an authentic connection. Their actual rapport is rooted in shared values, specifically their advocacy for animal rights. Without that bond, Elphaba and Fiyero’s interaction might be restricted to their royal parallels, him as the prince of Winkie Country, and her as the heir to the Wizard’s legacy.
Should Elphaba’s views veer significantly against animal rights, this could complicate their relationship. Fiyero, despite not being vocal about his ideology, tends to stand against oppressive regimes, and that sentiment could lead him to distance himself from Elphaba. In scenarios where he must choose, he might gravitate toward Glinda, who embodies values more aligned with compassion toward animals.
Elphaba: A Potential Ruler of Oz
A Shift in the Story of Oz

Ultimately, after a period of maturity, Elphaba is poised to ascend as the ruler of Oz, succeeding her father. Being the Wizard’s only child, she would naturally be his heir. Although her beliefs may diverge from his, Elphaba would likely feel compelled to uphold her father’s legacy and retain the power dynamics he entailed for Oz.
The citizens would be inclined to accept her leadership, especially given her magical capabilities, which would likely become evident over time. If Elphaba were indeed raised by the Wizard, the entire narrative of Wicked and Dorothy’s journey would experience substantial alterations. Characters like the Tin Man, Scarecrow, and Cowardly Lion would potentially not exist, and the identity of the Wicked Witch of the West would be entirely reframed. Since Elphaba possesses magic, Dorothy may never stumble upon the Wizard’s deception, thus allowing his reign to persist unchallenged.