Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo opened the 2025 Academy Awards with a spectacular performance, showcasing iconic songs from their film Wicked, and paying tribute to the musical roots of the beloved stories behind their characters. On March 2, 2025, the duo dazzled attendees at the Dolby Theatre with their remarkable talent and heartfelt renditions of classic songs.
Grande took the stage first, dressed in a stunning sparkling red dress, reminiscent of Dorothy's ruby slippers from the classic 1939 film The Wizard of Oz. She launched the evening's performance with her poignant rendition of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow", instantly captivating the audience. Her performance was enhanced by stunning visual projections of a starry sky and vibrant rainbows.
Following Grande, Erivo emerged to enchant the crowd with her powerful performance of "Home" from The Wiz, dressed elegantly in a huge white ball gown adorned with floral decorations. The combination of her stunning vocals and the background imagery, capturing the essence of Los Angeles, made for another unforgettable moment. Her passionate performance flowed seamlessly, showcasing the strong connection between the two co-stars.
Finally, the pair joined forces to perform the show-stopping number "Defying Gravity" from Wicked. Completing the magical experience, the stage dramatically elevated to lift Erivo high above the audience as she showcased her vocal prowess. The moment was met with rapturous applause, as audiences rose to their feet, embracing the leading ladies with a well-deserved standing ovation.
The medley performance marked the first time Grande and Erivo sang Defying Gravity live on stage together during a telecast, which only added to the significance of the moment. Both women are not only co-stars but former stage companions, having shared the spotlight throughout their careers. The ceremony was particularly special as both Grande and Erivo were nominated for Oscars this year, Grande for Best Supporting Actress and Erivo for Best Actress.
According to Grande, the bond she shares with Erivo extends beyond their on-screen personas. She expressed heartfelt admiration, stating, "I am so proud of my Elphie, my sister, my dear @cynthiaerivo. Your brilliance is never-ending and you deserve every flower (tulip) in every garden. I love you unconditionally, always." This sentiment resonates deeply as the duo portrays Glinda and Elphaba, respectively—characters who start as rivals and evolve to support each other.
Erivo reciprocated the affection, saying, "To my sister, @arianagrande, what a joy it is to be here with you watching as you ascend and amaze and become the actress you were meant to be. Congratulations to first-time nominee, I’m so so proud of you!! There is no one I would have wanted to do this with more than you." Their camaraderie was evident on stage, enhancing their performance and captivating the audience.
The night was also notable for the absence of live performances from nominees for Best Original Song, as the Academy opted instead to focus on showcasing performances from musicals and iconic films. Grande and Erivo's medley, performed to honor the legacy of The Wizard of Oz and The Wiz, stands out as one of the highlights of the Oscars.
Aside from the performances, there were ten nominations for Wicked, including Best Picture, Best Actress for Erivo, and Best Supporting Actress for Grande. The film's popularity has led to widespread acclaim and recognition throughout the past awards season, and its presence at the Oscars celebrated this success.
The accolades of the night are sure to benefit Wicked, which has endeared itself to audiences worldwide. Jon M. Chu directed the thrilling adaptation, creating anticipation for future projects set within the Wicked universe; the sequel, Wicked: For Good, is set to premiere on November 22, 2025.
Both women have expressed deep appreciation for the love and support they’ve received, and they are determined to take their friendship beyond the stage and screen. Erivo stated, "This film brought us together, but it's not the thing...that keeps us together," underscoring the enduring friendship they've built outside their characters. Grande echoed this sentiment, emphasizing their strong bond as collaborators and friends, fostering a sense of warmth and safety before embarking on their respective performances.
The impact of Grande and Erivo’s performance on the 2025 Oscars will be felt far beyond the event. Their musical medley captured the hearts of all present and those watching from home, blending nostalgia with excitement. With their talent and teamwork, they proved once again the magic of music and the enduring nature of beloved stories—even as they redefine narratives of friendship and personal growth.