A pivotal romantic moment in the hit film adaptation Wicked: For Good has been edited out for audiences in several international markets. The kiss shared between the characters Fiyero and Elphaba during the iconic 'As Long As You're Mine' sequence has been removed entirely in certain territories.
What Changes Were Made to the Scene?
The edits go beyond just the removal of the kiss. According to reports from viewers, particularly in the Middle East and Gulf regions, the scene has undergone significant alterations. A fan from the United Arab Emirates highlighted the changes in a viral TikTok video, explaining that not only is the kiss absent, but Fiyero's shirtless appearance has also been digitally altered.
The fan stated: "In the UAE and across other Middle Eastern and Gulf countries, they have cut that scene out. To add to that...they have CGI-ed a black top onto Fiyero with some little strings so we don't even see him topless." This confirms a dual edit: the removal of the passionate kiss and the covering of Fiyero's torso in the subsequent moment.
Fan Reaction and Wider Context
The revelation has sparked disappointment among some international fans who feel they are receiving a censored version of the film. In comments responding to the TikTok, one viewer from Palestine wrote, "They did this in Palestine too and I feel so robbed." Another fan remarked on the digital addition of the black top, saying, "He looks fabulous in the black top but also I feel cheated."
This practice of editing content for regional sensibilities is not uncommon in global cinema. Major films like Oppenheimer and series such as The Boys have previously been modified for release in various international markets where content may be deemed too explicit.
The Original Scene and Its Significance
In the original stage musical, 'As Long As You're Mine' is a celebrated and steamy duet where Fiyero and Elphaba finally confess their love. The film adaptation, Wicked: For Good, released on 1 December 2025, was already considered a toned-down version for family audiences—most notably with Elphaba wearing a cardigan. However, the core romantic tension, caress, kiss, and the line "For the first time, I feel Wicked" remained intact in the original cinematic cut.
The decision to edit the scene for specific international showings underscores the ongoing balancing act filmmakers face between artistic vision and local cultural standards. It raises questions for global audiences about whether they are experiencing the film as the director intended.
