Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande Are Back to the Spotlight: 7 Essential Facts You Should Be Aware Of

Regardless of your interest, the excitement surrounding Wicked: For Good is unavoidable. After a chaotic press tour for the first film, attention is now on the stars and the new movie in the beloved franchise.

1. They Continue to ‘Hold Space’ Mutually

Last year's promotional tour was notable for the strong connection between the two stars. Their emotional interviews and expressions of friendship gained widespread notice. Even with teasing about being “annoying,” their friendship appears unbreakable. During the New York premiere, one star avoided interviews to rest her vocals, while Grande reportedly did the same in solidarity. Inquiring about their feelings before the film's finale, they expressed “deep thankfulness.”

It was shared that one star lost her voice and would not be speaking with press at the ‘Wicked: For Good’ premiere. Ariana Grande also skipped media appearances in solidarity.

2. … and Often, They Are ‘Holding a Hand’

Observers of two successful women in their 30s constantly fussing over each other has fueled theories. They share multiple matching tattoos related to the franchise, including “Permanently” inside their hands. In a recent show, Grande commented that their goal is to “take care of each other” and adding she “expresses care” through physical touch.

{3. An Extreme ‘Fan’ Took It Too Far

At the Singapore premiere, a man breached the red carpet and rushed toward one of the stars. Cynthia Erivo immediately stepped in to protect her before guards apprehended the intruder. Named as an admitted “prankster,” he afterwards shared video of the incident on social media, prompting strong criticism. He faced penalties and was sentenced to jail.

{4. Grande and Slater Are Reportedly ‘Doing Great!!!’

The star's partner, co-star, features in the sequel. The couple met during filming of the first movie, during previous marriages. Despite social media posts, the pair not done interviews together and have been separated in public appearances, leading to breakup speculation. But, sources close to the pair recently denied these claims, stating that everything is “fine” between them.

{5. The Film Is Inspiring Stars to Go Vegan ‘Permanently’

Jeff Goldblum, who plays The Wizard of Oz, has shared that being part of the project prompted him to stop eating meat. The two lead actresses are dedicated plant-based, and Michelle Yeoh adheres to a similar diet. It motivated organizations to campaign to other actors, such as Jonathan Bailey, aiming to persuade them to switch to a plant-based diet. To date, he has remains non-committal but applauded the film's message of tolerance.

{6. The Yellow-Brick Road Is Lined In Gold …

Advance ticket sales for Wicked: For Good are reportedly exceeding those of the original. British cinemas, tickets are being purchased at more than twice the rate. The movie has also inspired numerous promotional partnerships, including beverages to TV events. In London also showcased a promotional yellow brick installation with song lyrics. With such momentum, there is talk about a possible third film.

{7. … and May Be Directing Her From Music

The singer has indicated that her forthcoming concert series—the initial in almost a decade—could be her last for a “foreseeable future.” Her focus appears to be moving to acting, such as an anticipated movie with Robert De Niro. Meanwhile, she has cultivated hobbies like birdwatching and showing curiosity in studying insects. For fans eagerly awaiting another album, this could mean a lengthy wait.

Michael Hoffman
Michael Hoffman

A former professional bettor turned analyst, Mikael shares data-driven insights to help bettors maximize their returns.