As the release date for Wicked: Part One nears, stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo have been lighting up headlines with their dynamic press tour, creating a viral storm of emotional moments, stylish appearances, and fan-favorite interviews. With the highly anticipated film set to premiere on November 22, Grande and Erivo’s off-screen chemistry and candid emotional displays are drawing as much attention as their on-screen portrayals of Glinda and Elphaba.
Throughout the promotional trail, Grande and Erivo have been unapologetically open about the profound bond they’ve formed during the three-year journey to bring Wicked to life. Their press appearances have been marked by tear-filled interviews, with the pair frequently getting emotional when reflecting on their experiences and their friendship. “We’ve come through a massive, massive thing, and we’ve really stuck together,” Erivo explained in an interview with E! News, while Grande humorously apologized for their constant crying, quipping, “My tear ducts are tired.” From podcast appearances to red carpet interviews, their moments of mutual admiration and heartfelt gratitude have struck a chord with fans. Grande described the emotional availability they’ve shown as a testament to the joy and impact of working on such a monumental project.
Beyond their emotional interviews, Grande and Erivo have embraced the theatricality of their roles in Wicked, bringing a touch of Oz-inspired flair to their fashion choices. Grande has leaned into Glinda’s signature pink, while Erivo has incorporated Elphaba-inspired greens, often trading or remixing these color palettes in creative ways. Their coordinated outfits have made each public appearance a spectacle, with fans eagerly dissecting every look.
Wicked: Part One is the first half of a two-part adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, directed by Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians). The film reimagines the story of Oz from the perspective of the witches, charting the relationship between Elphaba (Erivo) and Glinda (Grande) before Dorothy’s arrival.
Grande, who began her career on Broadway as a teenager, has described the project as a dream come true. For Erivo, the role of Elphaba continues her streak of powerhouse performances that blend musical and dramatic excellence. The movie also stars Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard, Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, and Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero.
With Wicked expected to be a major box office hit, early projections suggest it could rival other holiday blockbusters, including Gladiator II. Grande and Erivo’s promotional efforts, paired with the film’s built-in fanbase, have generated significant excitement. As they gear up for the movie’s theatrical debut, their emotional and vibrant press tour has already cemented their status as the heart and soul of this cinematic journey to Oz.
