Chicago star Latifah is set to portray the titular wizard in the upcoming production of The Wiz Live!, playing the part first portrayed by Richard Pryor in the 1978 film.

Meanwhile, Blige has been cast as Evillene, the Wicked Witch of the West, played by What's Happening!! actress Mabel King in the movie.

The duo join previously cast Stephanie Mills, who was Dorothy in the original 1975 Broadway cast, as Auntie Em.

Producers of the telecast, which will air in America in December (15), are hoping to transfer the show to Broadway for the 2016-17 season.