How The Wiz Changed Michael Jackson’s Career Forever (Ep. 104)

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive into the surprising Universal Pictures history behind Michael Jackson’s breakout acting role in The Wiz, exploring how the 1978 musical helped launch one of the most important creative partnerships in pop culture history. Along the way, they also cover new Epic Universe character reveals, Halloween Horror Nights rumors, and what’s next for Universal Orlando’s evolving parks. NEWS • Universal officially unveils Captain Cacao, the oversized bear mascot coming to Celestial Park at Epic Universe • Rumors swirl around a possible Ozzy Osbourne-themed house for Halloween Horror Nights 35 • Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp at DreamWorks Land temporarily closes for refurbishment through July • Listener theories continue about a possible Zelda-themed replacement for Mythos at Islands of Adventure • Universal fans debate whether Volcano Bay’s retired “Spirit of the Volcano” effect could inspire a new home for Mystic Fountain FEATURE • The surprising story behind how Michael Jackson landed the role of the Scarecrow in Universal’s 1978 film version of The Wiz • How The Wiz introduced Michael Jackson to legendary producer Quincy Jones during filming in New York City • Why Universal and Motown took a massive creative gamble adapting Broadway’s urban retelling of The Wizard of Oz • Behind-the-scenes stories involving Diana Ross, Richard Pryor, Ray Bolger, and the original casting plans for the film • How Michael Jackson’s performance in The Wiz helped pave the way for Off the Wall, Thriller, and Bad HOSTS • Jim Hill X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia Instagram: @JimHillMedia Website: jimhillmedia.com • Eric Hersey X/Twitter: @erichersey Instagram: @erichersey Website: strongmindedagency.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - SPONSOR UnlockedMagic.com - Save up to 12% on Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World tickets, including Express Pass options, when you book through If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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How The Wiz Changed Michael Jackson’s Career Forever (Ep. 104) is an episode from The Disney Dish with Jim Hill by Jim Hill Media Podcast Network.

This episode is 53:44 long.

This episode was published on May 22, 2026.

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