Fortnite’s musical influence has now transcended the gaming realm into Hollywood, making a surprising cameo in the film adaptation of Wicked. In an unexpected twist, the distinctive skydiving sound from Fortnite was woven into the fabric of one of the musical’s most iconic numbers, “Defying Gravity.” This cross-media surprise comes not from Fortnite’s usual in-game tributes to film franchises, but instead, it’s the game lending its sounds to a cinematic experience.
Wicked, directed by Jon M. Chu, stands as one of the most anticipated movies of 2024, already shattering box-office milestones and securing an impressive ten Oscar nominations, including one for Best Film Editing. The film’s editors have been praised for their inventive use of sound and visual effects to enhance the storytelling. Among these innovative choices was the inclusion of Fortnite’s skydiving sound, courtesy of Epic Games’ phenomenally successful game.
In a recent YouTube post by The Rough Cut, Myron Kerstein, Wicked’s editor, offered a behind-the-scenes look at the crafting of “Defying Gravity.” The sequence cleverly combines music, dynamic visuals, and atmospheric effects, and right there, amidst Elphaba’s flight from the tower, the distinctive skydiving sound familiar to Fortnite players can be heard. Fans of the game might recognize it from the moment when players leap from the Battle Bus, diving towards their landing spots. It’s worth noting that Wicked’s leading star, Ariana Grande, already has quite a presence in Fortnite, with her own character skins.
Interestingly, this audio snippet came to light through a video on The Rough Cut, where fans immediately picked up on the sound effect’s origin in the comment section. While the editor Kerstein didn’t overtly confirm its source, the gaming community’s ear for detail managed to drive the conversation. Typically, Fortnite borrows from film and pop culture for its skins and emotes, a homage to the likes of John Wick and Star Wars. Yet here, it seems the tables have turned, with the game stepping into the world of film, sound included.
Looking ahead, the fascinating journey of Elphaba will continue with Wicked: For Good, set to dazzle audiences on November 21, 2025. Meanwhile, Fortnite keeps players engaged with the newly launched OG Season 2, filled with fresh cosmetics and secretive quests. Enthusiasts of the game have until March 25 to secure the Season 2 OG Pass for just 1,000 V-Bucks, opening the door to as many as 45 distinct rewards.
Fortnite remains a vibrant playground for both gamers and creators alike. Whether exploring concerts, embarking on wild survival missions, or simply battling it out to be the last one standing, each session in Fortnite offers a unique experience across its many islands. With its ever-evolving landscape and community-driven creativity, the game continues to captivate and inspire players around the world.
