Idina Menzel surprised fans at the “Wicked” premiere by appearing with her teenage son. His striking resemblance to his father quickly became the focus.
On Saturday, November 9, Idina Menzel graced the premiere of the highly anticipated “Wicked” film in Los Angeles. While the actress is no stranger to the spotlight, it was her 15-year-old son, Walker Nathaniel Diggs, who stole the show.
A fan comments on Idina Menzel’s son’s appearance, from a post dated November 11, 2024 | Source: facebook.com/peoplemag/
Making a rare public appearance, the mother-son duo posed side by side for photographers, sharing a warm moment on the green carpet. Fans quickly noticed how much Walker looked like his father, Taye Diggs, and the buzz spread across social media.
One user on X (formerly Twitter) exclaimed, “Sometimes you forget her and Taye were a thing until he pop out😭 [sic],” while another remarked, “Wow his pretty Handsome, Idina and Taye must be so proud. [sic]”
Another fan simply expressed their surprise at how grown-up Walker looks, “Oh he’s so grown up now 😭😭,” while one wrote, “What a cutie.”
On Instagram, the buzz continued, with remarks like, “That boy has tayes whole smile [sic],” and “Perfect mix of both parents. Handsome young man!” One comment read, “Daddy’s twin❤️,” capturing the general sentiment.
Meanwhile, Facebook users joined in, posting reactions such as, “Wow the son looks so much like Taye,” and “He’s got his dad’s smile, that’s for sure!” Another fan remarked, “Spitting image of his dad.”
Walker’s father, Diggs, is a talented singer and actor, best known for his roles in “Rent” and “Chicago.” He often speaks proudly about his son, praising the teenager’s many talents.
“He’s a fierce athlete and he’s beaten up on me a lot,” Diggs joked in a past interview. “So I gotta stay in shape just to keep up with him.” The actor has also shared that Walker excels not only in sports but in the performing arts as well.
“He can act. He can sing. He can dance,” Diggs added. “He’s teaching me how to be a better adult.” The proud father didn’t hesitate to speculate about his son’s future, hinting at the potential for his son to follow in his and Menzel’s footsteps.
“Athletes are entertainers, so probably both,” Diggs mused. Diggs first met Menzel in 1995 while co-starring in the Broadway production of “Rent.” The couple’s onstage chemistry quickly evolved into a real-life romance, leading to their marriage in 2003.
Taye Diggs and Idina Menzel pictured on March 9, 2003 | Source: Getty Images
They welcomed Walker in September 2009, becoming parents amid their busy careers in theater and film. Although they split in 2013, they have emphasized their commitment to co-parenting.
Their shared focus on raising Walker has remained a central priority, allowing the family to maintain a strong bond. Their son’s appearance at the premiere sparked curiosity among fans.
Some speculated whether he might follow in their footsteps in the entertainment industry. “Wowzers! I wonder if he inherited his parents’ vocals? Especially his mom’s,” one fan commented.
Surrounded by Broadway’s brightest stars at the premiere of “Wicked,” the event offered a glimpse into the artistic roots that have shaped Walker’s upbringing.
The premiere itself carried deep significance for Menzel. She originally rose to fame in 2003 by playing the role of Elphaba in the musical “Wicked,” a performance that earned her a Tony Award for Best Leading Actress in a Musical.
Reflecting on her time with the show, Menzel shared moments from the premiere. She reunited with key figures from the “Wicked” universe, including Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, and Kristin Chenoweth.
Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, from a post dated November 11, 2024 | Source: Instagram/idinamenzel/
She later posted photos with the cast, captioning them, “@wickedmovie premiere with my sisters @kchenoweth, @cynthiaerivo and @arianagrande.”
Idina Menzel attends the “Wicked” premiere, from a post dated November 11, 2024 | Source: Instagram/idinamenzel/
Menzel expressed her deep connection to the film adaptation, writing, “The film is so loving and respectful of the original show but then builds on it in so many beautiful ways I never thought possible. The cast is spectacular. Cynthia and Ariana will blow you away. Extremely moving and emotional for me.”
Menzel and Walker’s appearance at the “Wicked” premiere highlighted his family’s strong bond. Walker’s talents and charisma suggest a bright future, whether in the spotlight or on his own path.
