The Unlikely Friendship Between Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo on the Set of Wicked
When Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo first stepped onto the set of the highly anticipated film adaptation of Wicked, they were virtual strangers. However, as they delved into their roles as best friends Glinda and Elphaba, something magical began to happen off-screen as well. According to an insider speaking to Star magazine, Grande and Erivo quickly formed a bond that transcended their on-screen characters.
Their friendship was so strong that they began to see each other as sisters, spending time together both on and off set. One particular activity they enjoyed was shopping in character, with Grande embracing Glinda’s signature pink aesthetic while Erivo opted for darker hues more in line with Elphaba’s character.
But it wasn’t just Grande and Erivo’s relationship that was making headlines. Just a month into filming in London in December 2022, Grande made headlines when she quietly split from her husband, Dalton Gomez. Reports soon surfaced that Grande was getting close to her co-star Ethan Slater, who plays the Munchkin Boq in the film. The situation took a dramatic turn in July when Slater reportedly blindsided his wife, Lilly Jay, by asking for a divorce, despite the recent birth of their son in 2022.
Despite the tabloid frenzy surrounding their personal lives, both Grande and Slater remained focused on their work. According to an insider, the drama off-screen did not affect their professionalism on set, with the rest of the cast and crew remaining unaware of the unfolding situation.
In a subsequent interview with Vanity Fair, Grande vehemently defended Slater, denying the rumors that he had abandoned his family. She praised his dedication to his loved ones, emphasizing that he always prioritized being there for those he cared about.
The Evolution of Grande and Erivo’s On-Screen Chemistry
As Grande and Erivo delved deeper into their roles as Glinda and Elphaba, their on-screen chemistry began to flourish. Their performances captivated audiences, drawing praise for their portrayal of the iconic characters from the beloved musical. Grande’s ethereal vocals and Erivo’s powerhouse performances added a new dimension to the characters, breathing fresh life into the classic story.
Off-screen, their friendship continued to blossom, with the two stars supporting each other through the challenges of filming a major motion picture. Their bond extended beyond their characters, creating a sense of camaraderie that translated into their performances on screen.
The Impact of Personal Drama on the Set of Wicked
While Grande and Slater’s rumored romance sparked controversy in the tabloids, the atmosphere on set remained unaffected. The cast and crew remained focused on bringing the beloved musical to life, with Grande and Erivo leading the way with their captivating performances.
Despite the personal challenges they faced, both Grande and Slater remained dedicated to their craft, delivering compelling performances that resonated with audiences around the world. The drama off-screen only served to highlight the depth of their talent and commitment to their roles.
The Legacy of Grande and Erivo’s Collaboration on Wicked
As the film adaptation of Wicked made its way to theaters, Grande and Erivo’s performances continued to garner praise from critics and fans alike. Their on-screen chemistry and dynamic portrayal of Glinda and Elphaba added a new layer of complexity to the iconic characters, cementing their place in the pantheon of great musical performances.
Despite the personal challenges they faced during filming, Grande and Erivo’s friendship remained strong, serving as a testament to the power of collaboration and mutual respect. Their bond transcended the screen, creating a lasting legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
