Jonathan Bailey’s transformation in Wicked: For Good has sparked widespread discussion about his striking Ryan Reynolds resemblance in Wicked, especially as the film continues its impressive box office run. The closing moments of the movie reveal Bailey’s Prince Fiyero turning into the iconic straw-filled Scarecrow, catching the attention of fans and fueling lively online debate.
Fans React to the Recognizable Look of the Scarecrow
Shortly after the film’s release, social media platforms lit up with viewers comparing Bailey’s makeover to that of Ryan Reynolds. Commenters highlighted the similarities, sharing humorous posts and memes about the uncanny likeness. One user wrote,
why does jonathan bailey as scarecrow looks like ryan reynolds…we need to open an investigation
—ivy, X user. Another questioned the transformation’s authenticity, stating,
You’re telling me this ISN’T Ryan Reynolds.
This sense of surprise and disbelief was shared by others, who contributed to a viral conversation about the casting and design choices. Popular posts quoted reactions such as “The resemblance is uncanny,” adding to the ongoing buzz surrounding Bailey’s Scarecrow.
Mixed Reactions to the Scarecrow’s Makeup and Design
While the comparison to Ryan Reynolds has amused many, not everyone is thrilled with the Scarecrow’s visual presentation. Some viewers have voiced dissatisfaction with the makeup and prosthetic work featured in Jonathan Bailey’s final scene. According to a comment on X:
My only BIG complaint (rest are nitpicking) is how Fiyero looks as the Scarecrow. I don’t know if anybody was thinking when making his face makeup.
—user, X comment
These criticisms contributed to a broader debate about the film’s creative direction. However, the overall reception for Wicked: For Good remained strong, with critics and audiences praising the performances of returning stars such as Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum. The sequel, which adapts the second half of the original Broadway musical that first captivated audiences in 2003, has exceeded high box office expectations, surpassing its predecessor in both ticket sales and social media engagement.
Significance of the Fan Response and What Happens Next
The lively response to the Scarecrow’s on-screen look—centered on Bailey’s Ryan Reynolds resemblance in Wicked—illustrates the passionate engagement of both theater and film fans. While the debate over makeup choices continues, the buzz has only amplified the film’s visibility and may influence future creative decisions in the franchise. As Wicked: For Good maintains its box office momentum, the conversation around casting, character design, and tribute nods to other stars like Ryan Reynolds is likely to persist.
Originally reported by Preksha Sharma on Mandatory, the film’s reception and the playful fan comparisons highlight how audience reactions can shape the narrative surrounding blockbuster adaptations.
why does jonathan bailey as scarecrow looks like ryan reynolds…we need to open an investigation pic.twitter.com/PfkREuWMO7
— ivy (@ohhhhhherewegoo) November 21, 2025
