Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo have become the center of online discussions following the debut of their highly anticipated film collaboration, Wicked: Part One. Both stars have shared personal insights into their journeys, with Erivo offering a deeply moving glimpse into the inspiration behind her portrayal of Elphaba.
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As the first part of the beloved musical’s two-part adaptation, Wicked: Part One reimagines the intertwined stories of Elphaba and Glinda, two young women at Shiz University in the Land of Oz. Initially rivals, their unexpected friendship is tested by life-changing events, including a fateful encounter with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz.
Grande and Erivo bring depth and authenticity to these iconic roles, each infusing personal experiences into their performances. Ahead of the film’s November 2024 release, the actresses gave a heartfelt interview with Entertainment Tonight, reflecting on their transformative journeys.
@apnewsentertainment “Wicked” star Cynthia Erivo says she “had a human moment” responding negatively on social media to a fan-made poster for the film. She hosted the CFDA Fashion Awards in New York. #cynthiaerivo #wicked #wickedmovie
Grande became emotional discussing her decision to use her full name, Ariana Grande-Butera, in the credits. “He cried,” she said of her father’s reaction, her voice breaking as she held Erivo’s hand. She explained that reclaiming her full name, which she had as a child when she first experienced Wicked, represented a return to self-discovery and her roots. “This project brought me back to a part of myself I thought I’d lost,” she said, expressing gratitude for how it shaped her journey.
Erivo also spoke about her connection to her character, Elphaba, and how the role resonated deeply with her own experiences of feeling out of place. “I know what it feels like not to belong,” she shared tearfully, describing Elphaba’s story as a “hug” for anyone who has felt excluded.
@kimberleyoffline NO because The pay gap between ariana grande and Cynthia Erivo is INSANE. Ariana Grande paid 15 million, whilst Cynthia Erivo paid a measly 1 million for wicked, when in my opinion – both had identical roles. ICL Any OG Cynthia supporter/ follower would be appalled at this are you joking?💀💀
In a separate interview, Erivo highlighted a powerful moment in Elphaba’s story: her bold declaration at Shiz University about embracing her identity. “Yes, she’s green, she’s not seasick, no, she didn’t eat grass as a child, and she’s always been green.”
Erivo admired these lines, noting, “It immediately takes ownership of who she is.” She explained that Elphaba’s confidence inspired her to embrace her own identity, including her queerness. “I’ve had time to reckon with the skin I’m in… to truly own who I am,” she said, emphasizing the quiet strength she wanted to bring to her performance.
@perezhilton25 🧙♀️ 🧙♀️ #ArianaGrande #CynthiaErivo #Wicked
Audiences responded enthusiastically to Erivo’s portrayal, with many pointing out how her identity as a Black actress added new layers to Elphaba’s story. “Elphaba’s experience mirrors the reality for many Black women and anyone made to feel they don’t belong,” one user wrote. Another noted, “Her portrayal added depth and relatability.”
This conversation reflects broader discussions about representation in casting. Alexia Khadime, the only Black actress to play Elphaba full-time on London’s West End, previously spoke about the racism she faced in the role. Khadime shared how critics accused her of “taking away white roles,” echoing backlash faced by other Black actors in iconic roles.
@starmelodies6 WHY DOES ARIANA GRANDE EARN $10 MILLION MORE THAN CYNTHIA ERIVO ? #celebrity #arianagrande #fyp
Erivo recently confronted another controversy when fans altered a promotional poster for Wicked to resemble the Broadway version, changing her appearance by lowering her hat and adding bold lipstick. She called the edits degrading, writing, “I am a real-life human being… to edit my face and hide my eyes is to erase me.” While acknowledging her emotional response, she stood by her statement, highlighting how such changes diminish her identity and work.
Another controversy emerged online with rumors of a pay disparity between Grande and Erivo. Speculation suggested Grande earned $15 million for the film, while Erivo received $1 million. Fans debated whether Grande’s larger fanbase justified the gap, with some arguing it was unfair given Erivo’s extensive credentials, including Grammy and Emmy wins.
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However, Universal Studios addressed the rumors, stating, “Reports of pay disparity between Cynthia and Ariana are completely false and based on internet fodder. The women received equal pay for their work on Wicked.” Insiders confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter that both actresses were paid equally, resolving the debate.
With the rumors dispelled, the focus returns to the talent and dedication both stars bring to Wicked. Their performances highlight themes of identity, resilience, and representation, showcasing the enduring power of artistry in film.
