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Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo have been on an emotional press tour for their upcoming film Wicked. The duo, who play the iconic Glinda and Elphaba, have been shedding tears in every interview and while it’s pretty cheesy, their tears are heartfelt.
During an interview with Today’s Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb on Nov. 14, Ariana addressed the backlash with a lighthearted apology, saying, “We’re sorry. Much to the annoyance of many.”
Cynthia, however, explained that they “can’t help it,” as the journey to bring Wicked to the big screen has been long and deeply personal for both of them. Ariana noted that they had waited nearly three years before revealing they would star in the iconic film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical.
“We’re seeing people’s reactions for the first time. So having someone come into the room and tell us what it did for them after it was our secret for literally three years is tremendous and it’s affirming,” the “Dangerous Woman” singer added.
Emotional ‘Wicked’ Interviews
The Hollywood stars were overcome with emotion during a conversation with ET’s Nischelle Turner on Nov. 12, breaking down in tears while discussing the film. Turner became emotional as she reflected on how she connected with Elphaba’s character, relating to her experience of feeling “othered” growing up. Cynthia, also moved to tears, shared how she identified with Elphaba as someone who felt like she didn’t quite fit in.
The duo was similarly emotional during a chat with Em Rusciano on The Emsolation Podcast on Nov. 6. They teared up after Rusciano praised their performances as Elphaba and Glinda, thanking them for bringing the iconic characters to life so beautifully.
Social Media Reacts
Rather than appreciating the heartfelt moments, critics on X took to social media to voice their unwarranted opinions, calling the ladies’ tears “too much” and even “annoying.”
Cynthia explained to Hoda and Savannah that the tears were a reflection of her deep gratitude toward the “wonderful fans” who have embraced all the new elements brought to the film, “which is not an easy thing to do when you love something as is for so long,” she said. Erivo added that she was appreciative of how audiences have welcomed the fresh take on the beloved story.
Ariana agreed, adding, “The thing is, this has been like destiny for the two of us, we’ve loved it, our whole lives. And I think we needed these roles. More than they needed us in certain ways.”
The negative comments online were swiftly drowned out by passionate Wicked fans who rushed to defend the actresses. Many shared that they too had left the LA film premiere in tears, with several taking to X afterward to express their emotional reactions to the film. One user wrote, “I hope Ariana and Cynthia keep crying until Wicked 2 is out so it keeps pissing all of you off, I love it.”
We love to see it, too! Congrats to Ariana and Cynthia!
Wicked is set to hit theaters on Nov. 22.
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