The awards season conversation surrounding ‘s Wicked and its upcoming sequel, Wicked: For Good, has taken a supportive turn, with Ariana Grande publicly defending her co-star Cynthia Erivo and director Jon M. Chu following recent awards snubs. The outpouring of support underscores the deep creative bonds forged during the production and highlights the often-complex dynamics of awards recognition within the industry.
The situation stems from the fact that both Erivo and Chu were overlooked by key awards bodies. Erivo, who powerfully portrays Elphaba, did not receive a nomination from the Screen Actors Guild Awards for her performance, despite critical acclaim and a nomination for the original Wicked film. Similarly, Chu was absent from the nominees for the Directors Guild of America Award. These omissions sparked discussion, particularly given the film’s significant cultural impact and the dedication of those involved.
Grande, who plays Glinda and is herself an Academy Award nominee for her work in Wicked, addressed the snubs in a recent interview with Variety. Her response wasn’t one of protest, but rather a fervent affirmation of the talent and artistry of her colleagues. The impact of his work and Cynthia’s Elphaba is undeniable,
Grande stated. Cynthia’s performance is the most truthful, vulnerable and fierce Elphaba we’ve seen and it will be referenced and adored for generations. That can’t be taken away.
This sentiment speaks to a broader recognition within the cast and crew of the exceptional work achieved, regardless of external validation.
Grande’s comments also extended to praising Chu, stating, There aren’t enough flowers on this earth for Jon M. Chu.
She described him as an extraordinary human being and director
and emphasized the lasting impact of his vision for the film. Her words suggest a collaborative environment where the director’s influence was deeply felt and appreciated by the cast.
The significance of Grande’s public support extends beyond simple collegiality. It’s a pointed statement within an industry often scrutinized for its internal politics and perceived biases. Awards recognition, while not the sole measure of artistic merit, carries considerable weight in terms of career momentum and future opportunities. Erivo’s absence from the SAG nominations, in particular, raised eyebrows given her previous recognition for the role and the generally positive reception to her performance.
The situation also reflects a larger conversation about representation and recognition within the entertainment industry. Erivo, a Black actress, has consistently broken barriers throughout her career, and her portrayal of Elphaba was hailed as a groundbreaking moment for representation on screen. The lack of awards attention, feels particularly poignant to some observers.
Grande further emphasized the interconnectedness of their success, stating, That’s why I say every good thing that happens to me belongs to them, too. None of this exists in isolation. We informed each other every single day.
This highlights the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the importance of recognizing the contributions of all involved, not just those who receive individual accolades.
The timing of Grande’s comments is also noteworthy. As the Academy Awards approach, the conversation around potential nominees is intensifying. While Erivo is not currently expected to receive an Oscar nomination, Grande’s vocal support serves as a reminder of her talent and the impact of her performance. The awards season often operates on momentum and narrative, and Grande’s advocacy could potentially influence perceptions within the Academy.
Beyond the awards implications, Grande’s words offer a glimpse into her evolving perspective as an artist. She recently discussed with Variety how acting offers a different kind of exposure than music, describing it as a process of reconciliation
compared to the self-focused
nature of her musical work. This suggests a deepening commitment to acting and a desire to explore the complexities of character and storytelling.
The response to the snubs also underscores the passionate fanbase surrounding Wicked. The musical has a devoted following, and the film adaptation has generated significant anticipation. The disappointment expressed by fans online mirrors the sentiments articulated by Grande, demonstrating the cultural resonance of the project and its stars.
As the release of Wicked: For Good draws closer, the focus will undoubtedly shift to the sequel’s own awards prospects. However, the current situation serves as a reminder that the true measure of a film’s success lies not solely in accolades, but in its ability to connect with audiences and leave a lasting impact. Grande’s unwavering support for Erivo and Chu is a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of celebrating artistic achievement, regardless of awards recognition.
