Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo Return to the Spotlight: Seven Essential Facts You Should Know
Regardless of your interest, the excitement surrounding the Wicked sequel is inescapable. Following a chaotic press tour for the first film, attention is now on the lead actors and the new movie in the beloved franchise.
1. They Continue to ‘Hold Space’ for One Another
Last year's press circuit was notable for the deep bond between both actresses. Their emotional interviews and public displays of friendship captured widespread notice. Even with teasing about being “annoying,” their friendship remains strong. During the recent event, Erivo opted to skip interviews to protect her voice, while the other reportedly joined her in solidarity. Inquiring about their feelings ahead of the film's finale, the response was “overwhelming gratitude.”
Reports indicate that Cynthia Erivo lost her voice and could not doing interviews at the ‘Wicked: For Good’ premiere. Her co-star also skipped interviews in solidarity.
2. … and Often, They Are ‘Holding a Hand’
The sight of accomplished women in their 30s constantly fussing over each other has sparked online speculation. Both have multiple matching ink related to the film, including “Permanently” inside their hands. In a recent show, Grande commented that they simply “look after each other” and that she “channels energy” through physical touch.
{3. An Extreme ‘Fan’ Took It Too Far
During the Singapore premiere, a man jumped over the red carpet and rushed toward one of the stars. Her co-star quickly intervened to protect her before guards apprehended the intruder. Identified as an admitted “troll,” the individual afterwards posted video of the event online, prompting widely condemned. Subsequent penalties and was sentenced to prison time.
{4. Grande and Slater Are Said to Be ‘Doing Great!!!’
Ariana Grande’s boyfriend, Ethan Slater, features in the film. The couple connected during filming of the original, amid previous marriages. Despite social media posts, the pair not done interviews together and have been separated in group photos, leading to split rumors. But, sources close to the pair recently denied these claims, stating that everything is “great” between them.
{5. The Film Is Encouraging Stars to Go Vegan ‘For Good’
A co-star, portraying The Wizard of Oz, recently shared that working on the project led him to give up meat. Both lead actresses are longtime plant-based, and another cast member follows a vegan lifestyle. This has encouraged animal rights groups to campaign to other actors, such as Jonathan Bailey, hoping to persuade them to adopt a plant-based diet. So far, he has remains non-committal but has praised the movie's themes of acceptance.
{6. The Path to Success Is Lined In Gold …
Advance ticket sales for the sequel are apparently exceeding those of the first film. In the UK cinemas, passes are selling at over double the pace. The movie has additionally inspired numerous product tie-ins, including beverages to television specials. In London even showcased a promotional paved installation with song lyrics. With such success, there is speculation about a possible third film.
{7. … and May Be Leading Grande Away From Music
Ariana Grande has suggested that her forthcoming tour—the initial in almost a decade—could be her last for a “very long time.” Her focus appears to be shifting to film roles, such as an upcoming movie with Robert De Niro. Meanwhile, she has developed hobbies like observing birds and expressing curiosity in studying insects. For fans hoping for new music, this could mean a long delay.