The upcoming Wicked movie adaptation has captured fans’ hearts with promises of cinematic magic, but the production has also been surrounded by notable controversies involving its stars, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo.
Both actresses have been seen visibly emotional during interviews and behind-the-scenes moments. Their reactions reflect the deep passion they bring to their roles as Glinda and Elphaba. Iconic songs like “For Good” and “Defying Gravity” have reportedly left cast and crew in tears, emphasizing the weight of embodying such beloved characters. However, off-screen issues also contribute to their heightened emotions. Ariana Grande’s highly publicized relationship with co-star Ethan Slater, amidst his divorce proceedings, has added to the pressure, drawing intense media scrutiny.
Another controversy was about a fan-edited poster, which sparked heated debate when it reimagined the official Wicked movie art in the style of the original Broadway Playbill. While some fans saw the redesign as a tribute, Cynthia Erivo criticized it as “degrading and erasing her,” expressing concern over preserving her artistic integrity. After receiving backlash, Erivo reflected on her initial response, acknowledging her strong emotional connection to the role. Ariana Grande supported Cynthia while also highlighting the inevitability of fan edits in today’s digital age, calling for more understanding of fan culture.
Observers have pointed out noticeable weight loss in both actresses, leading to discussions about the physical and mental toll of preparing for their demanding roles. Neither star has directly addressed these observations, but the intense expectations surrounding the production are clear.
Despite these challenges, Wicked remains one of the year’s most anticipated films. Fans eagerly await its November release, which promises to showcase the dedication, artistry, and resilience of its stars in bringing this iconic story to the big screen.
