The promotional tour for ‘s “Wicked: For Good” has concluded, leaving behind a trail of viral moments and, more recently, a swirl of speculation regarding the relationship between its two leads, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. What began as a seemingly seamless and affectionate partnership has, in the eyes of some observers, begun to show cracks, prompting questions about the dynamic between the actresses as awards season approaches.
For nearly a year, Grande and Erivo leaned into a narrative of close friendship, generating significant buzz for the film. Their public displays of affection – frequent hand-holding, coordinated outfits, and shared emotional moments – became a hallmark of the press tour, fueling countless memes and online discussions. The duo appeared inseparable, fostering an image of genuine camaraderie that resonated with fans eager to see their on-screen chemistry translate off-screen.
However, a shift in perception began to emerge earlier this month, fueled by a “blind item” posted on the Hollywood gossip site Crazy Days, and Nights. The item, which alluded to a falling out between two A-list stars, quickly sparked speculation that it referred to Grande and Erivo. While the post didn’t explicitly name the actresses, the timing coincided with a perceived change in their public interactions, leading fans to dissect their social media posts and public appearances for clues.
The scrutiny intensified as social media users pointed to subtle changes in body language and a perceived distance between the two stars. This coincided with reports of illness during the press tour. , Grande and Erivo attended the New York City premiere of “Wicked: For Good” and made television appearances. Shortly after, , news broke that Cynthia Erivo had fallen ill, followed by Ariana Grande revealing she had contracted COVID. The timing of these events, coupled with the aforementioned observations, added fuel to the speculation.
The intensity of the public interest in their relationship is a testament to the power of carefully crafted publicity. The “Wicked” press tour was notable for its deliberate cultivation of a narrative around the bond between Grande and Erivo. A viral moment from an interview, where the two appeared to be “holding space for the lyrics of ‘Defying Gravity’”, became a source of both amusement and scrutiny, highlighting the performative aspects of celebrity friendship. BuzzFeed compiled a list of of the most viral moments from the press tours, demonstrating the sheer volume of content generated around their interactions.
The situation is further complicated by Grande’s personal life. Reports indicate she is currently dating her “Wicked” co-star, Ethan Slater. This development has led some to suggest that any perceived distance between Grande and Erivo may be a result of shifting personal dynamics.
It’s important to note that much of the current discussion remains speculative. The initial reports originated from an anonymous source, and the subsequent analysis relies heavily on interpreting public behavior. The entertainment industry is often rife with rumors, and it’s crucial to approach such claims with caution.
The release of “Wicked: For Good” on marked the culmination of a long-awaited project. The film, which picks up after the events of the first “Wicked” movie released in , sees Grande and Erivo reprise their roles as Glinda and Elphaba, respectively. The plot centers on their efforts to mend their friendship and save Oz. The success of the film will undoubtedly be a key factor in shaping the future careers of both actresses.
As awards season unfolds, the dynamic between Grande and Erivo will likely remain under scrutiny. Whether the speculation about a feud proves to be accurate or simply a product of overzealous fans and industry gossip, the situation underscores the challenges of maintaining genuine relationships in the highly public world of Hollywood. The film is already being shown in select theaters, with AMC hosting double feature screenings of “Wicked” and “Wicked: For Good.”
The narrative surrounding “Wicked: For Good” has always been about the power of friendship and overcoming adversity. The current off-screen drama, whether substantiated or not, adds an unexpected layer of complexity to that narrative, raising questions about the authenticity of public personas and the pressures faced by those in the spotlight.
