The Complex Sisterhood of Regina and Zelena Mills in ‘Once Upon a Time’

The relationship between Regina Mills, the Evil Queen, and Zelena, the Wicked Witch of the West, forms a compelling and often fraught storyline within the fantasy drama Once Upon a Time. Introduced in the show’s third season, their connection as sisters—a revelation that dramatically reshapes the narrative—is rooted in a history of abandonment, jealousy, and magical power. This article delves into the origins of their relationship, the key conflicts that define it, and the actresses who brought these iconic characters to life.

A History of Abandonment and Jealousy

Zelena and Regina’s story begins with a shared mother, Cora Mills. However, Cora abandoned Zelena shortly after her birth, leaving her to be raised by a drunken woodsman and his wife. This abandonment fueled a deep-seated resentment within Zelena, who only learned of her sister’s existence years later through the Wizard of Oz. The Wizard revealed that Regina was being mentored in magic by Rumplestiltskin, further exacerbating Zelena’s feelings of inadequacy and jealousy .

This jealousy became the driving force behind Zelena’s actions, as she sought to change the past and inflict suffering on Regina. Their relationship throughout the series is characterized by confrontation, mutual distrust, and occasional, uneasy alliances against common enemies .

Portrayal and Casting

Rebecca Mader portrays Zelena, formerly known as the Wicked Witch of the West. Isabella Blake-Thomas plays Zelena in her younger years . Regina Mills is portrayed by Lana Parrilla. The dynamic between the two sisters is visually brought to life by Lyubov Shuvalova and Ekaterina Kozina in a photoshoot by Anastasia Gavrischuk.

Cora’s Role in Their Past

Cora Mills plays a pivotal role in understanding the sisters’ fractured relationship. A video clip shows Cora restoring Regina and Zelena’s memories, revealing the full extent of their shared history and the motivations behind Cora’s actions . While Anastasia, a character likewise connected to Cora, served as a daughter figure, she was not a biological sister to Regina or Zelena .

The Mills Sisters’ Legacy

The complex dynamic between Regina and Zelena continues to resonate with fans of Once Upon a Time, highlighting themes of family, abandonment, and the destructive power of jealousy. Their story serves as a central emotional core within the series, driving much of the plot and character development.