Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivo Are Back to the Red Carpet: Seven Essential Facts You Should Be Aware Of
Whether you're a fan or not, the buzz surrounding Wicked: For Good is inescapable. Following a hectic 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 promotional tour was famous for the strong connection between the two stars. Their emotional appearances and expressions of friendship captured widespread notice. Despite teasing about being “annoying,” their friendship remains strong. At the New York premiere, Erivo avoided interviews to rest her vocals, while Grande allegedly joined her in solidarity. When asked about their emotions ahead of the film's finale, the response was “overwhelming gratitude.”
It was shared that Cynthia Erivo was voiceless and could not speaking with press at the ‘Wicked: For Good’ premiere. Her co-star also skipped media appearances to stand with her.
2. … and Often, They Are ‘Holding a Hand’
Observers of accomplished women in their thirties frequently caring for each other has fueled theories. They share several matching ink related to the franchise, such as “For good” inside their hands. On a podcast, one star explained that they simply “take care of each other” and adding she “expresses care” through physical touch.
{3. An Extreme ‘Fan’ Crossed the Line
At the Singapore premiere, a man jumped over the red carpet and attempted to grab one of the stars. Cynthia Erivo quickly stepped in to protect her before guards apprehended the intruder. Named as an admitted “troll,” the individual later posted footage of the event online, prompting widely condemned. Subsequent legal charges and was sentenced to prison time.
{4. Grande and Slater Are Said to Be ‘Doing Great!!!’
The star's boyfriend, co-star, features in the film. They met during production of the original, during prior relationships. Even with online sharing, the pair avoided joint press and have been apart in group photos, fueling breakup speculation. But, insiders familiar with the pair have denied these claims, stating that everything is “fine” 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 prompted him to stop eating meat. Both stars are longtime plant-based, and another cast member adheres to a similar diet. This has encouraged animal rights groups to reach out to co-stars, such as Jonathan Bailey, hoping to persuade them to switch to a vegan lifestyle. To date, he has not committed but applauded the film's message of tolerance.
{6. The Yellow-Brick Road Is Paved With Gold …
Advance ticket sales for the sequel are apparently exceeding those of the original. In the UK theaters, passes are selling at over double the rate. The movie has also inspired numerous promotional partnerships, including beverages to TV events. The city also showcased a publicity paved display with song lyrics. With such momentum, there is speculation about a possible next installment.
{7. … and May Be Leading Grande From Music
Ariana Grande has indicated that her forthcoming concert series—her first in almost a decade—might be her last for a “very long time.” Her focus appears to be moving toward film roles, including an upcoming project with Robert De Niro. Meanwhile, she has cultivated hobbies like birdwatching and expressing curiosity in studying insects. For fans eagerly awaiting new music, it might be a long delay.