Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande Return to the Spotlight: 7 Essential Facts To Know

Regardless of your interest, the excitement surrounding the Wicked sequel is inescapable. After a chaotic press tour for the initial installment, attention is now on the lead actors and the new movie in the beloved franchise.

They Are Still to Support Each Other Mutually

The previous press circuit was notable for the strong connection between both actresses. Tearful interviews and expressions of friendship gained widespread notice. Despite teasing about being “annoying,” their friendship appears unbreakable. At the New York premiere, one star avoided interviews to rest her vocals, while the other allegedly joined her as a show of support. When asked about their emotions ahead of the final installment, the response was “overwhelming gratitude.”

It was shared that Cynthia Erivo lost her voice and would not be doing interviews at the movie premiere. Ariana Grande opted out of media appearances to stand with her.

2. … and Often, They Are Physically Close

The sight of accomplished women in their thirties frequently caring for each other has sparked online speculation. They share multiple matching tattoos inspired by the film, including “For good” inside their hands. In a recent podcast, Grande commented that they simply “take care of each other” and adding she “expresses care” through hand-holding.

{3. An Overzealous ‘Fan’ Took It Too Far

At the international event, an individual jumped over security barriers and rushed toward one of the stars. Her co-star quickly stepped in to protect her before security apprehended the intruder. Named as a self-described “prankster,” he later posted video of the incident on social media, prompting widely condemned. Subsequent penalties and was sentenced to jail.

{4. Grande and Slater Are Said to Be ‘Doing Great!!!’

Ariana Grande’s partner, Ethan Slater, also appears in the sequel. The couple met during production of the first movie, amid previous marriages. Even with social media posts, the pair avoided interviews together and appeared apart in group photos, fueling split rumors. However, insiders familiar with the couple recently dismissed these claims, affirming 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. The two lead actresses are dedicated plant-based, and Michelle Yeoh follows a similar diet. This has encouraged animal rights groups to campaign to other actors, such as Jonathan Bailey, hoping to persuade them to switch to a vegan diet. So far, he has remains non-committal but has praised the film's message of tolerance.

{6. The Yellow-Brick Road Is Paved With Gold …

Pre-sale numbers for Wicked: For Good are reportedly exceeding those of the original. In the UK theaters, tickets are selling at over double the rate. The movie has also led to numerous product tie-ins, including drinks to television specials. The city even featured a publicity yellow brick installation with song lyrics. Given the momentum, fans have talk about a potential third film.

{7. … and May Be Directing Her Away From Music

The singer has indicated that her forthcoming concert series—her first in seven years—could be her final for a “very long time.” Her focus appears to be shifting toward acting, such as an anticipated project with Robert De Niro. Meanwhile, she has developed hobbies like observing birds and showing curiosity in studying insects. For fans hoping for another album, it might be a long delay.

Anna Davila
Anna Davila

Elena is a seasoned mountaineer and outdoor writer with over 15 years of experience scaling peaks across Europe and Asia.