Ariana Grande has surprised her fans by confirming something many would never expect from her: she enjoys playing Monopoly online with strangers. During Vogue's 'What's in My Bag?' series, the Wicked actress candidly opened up about how she spends her leisure time. "I have my iPad when I'm traveling and when I'm waiting on set or whatever, I like to play games," she told the outlet.
The pop star disclosed, "I play a lot of Monopoly online with strangers. It's die-hard; I think I'm on level 80, I believe. I'm not kidding." Such dedication to the virtual version of the classic board game paints Grande as more than just a chart-topping singer; it shows another, more relatable side of her life, one where she enjoys the thrill of competition and connection with unknown players.
Grande, who’s not just known for her vocal prowess but also her acting skills, revealed additional gaming interests, saying, "I would say it's mostly for Monopoly and my virtual farm." It's clear she takes her gaming seriously, using it as both relaxation and distraction during her busy working hours. This love for online gaming reveals how even the most famous pop icons need outlets to unwind.
During the segment, Ariana also shared some other essentials she carries around, providing glimpses of her personal and professional life. Among the items were her phone, black earmuffs, cough drops, two different kinds of headphones, lavender oil, her very own fragrance MOD Vanilla, and some vegan snack bars. These items showcase her need to stay comfortable and prepared, especially when she's traveling or on set.
Another heartfelt reveal was the small gift she keeps from a fan, highlighting the special connection she maintains with her supporters. "This is actually a lovely little thing... He was so sweet, he gave me this little tiny book called Ari's Pick-Me-Ups and I thought it was the cutest thing in the world," Grande recounted. The fan's thoughtful present reflects how even celebrities cherish tokens of appreciation from their fans.
The tiny book contains uplifting quotes and drawings related to her recent role as Glinda the Good Witch in Wicked. "They're just random quotes... one of the pages says 'Toss, toss' with bubbles... next to a quote from (director) Jon M. Chu," she said, clearly touched by the thoughtful nature of the gift. It’s easy to see how such cherished items evoke warm feelings for Grande, grounding her amid the whirlwind of fame.
The anticipation surrounding Wicked, which has captured the hearts of many, has only added to Grande’s already impressive resume. It's interesting to juxtapose her fame with her mundane pursuits, like playing online games. These revelations not only make her more relatable but also serve as reminders of how celebrities enjoy simple pleasures just like anyone else.
Grande's candid admissions during the interview remind fans and followers alike of the balancing act involved with her career as both musician and actress, particularly as she promotes her lead role in the hit adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical. It appears she manages to carve out time for herself, and they resonate with those who might also find themselves indulging in games during moments of downtime.
The Wicked film adaptation has grabbed widespread attention, earning ten Oscar nominations and making headlines for its star-studded performances. Grande's involvement has heightened interest and excitement for the film as it wraps around the themes of friendship and self-discovery.
By sharing her gaming habit, Grande fosters fan engagement beyond just her music and movies—she humanizes herself, reminding everyone of the joy found in gaming and relaxation. It's these honest moments about life's little escapes, like playing Monopoly online, which keep audiences intrigued and connected to her as she continues to build her legacy.