Recently, the excitement surrounding the film adaptation of Wicked reached new heights as Ariana Grande, one of the leading stars, showcased her much-anticipated performance at the preview events for fans and critics alike. Grande takes on the iconic role of Glinda, and after months of speculation, audiences finally had the opportunity to hear her rendition of the character’s show-stopping numbers, most famously "Popular."
At the recent premiere event held at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Grande’s performance drew various reactions. Initially, the official Wicked social media account shared a clip of Grande singing "Popular," but it sparked controversy due to incorrect lyrics displayed alongside the video. The mistake didn’t go unnoticed, as Grande herself took to the comments to correct the line, highlighting her dedication to the role even beyond the performance itself.
Critics and fans were quick to respond to the preview, with mixed feelings about Grande’s rendition. Some viewers echoed sentiments about the noticeable use of autotune, questioning the authenticity of her vocal performance. Fans of Broadway and traditional musical theater expressed skepticism, comparing the short clip's sound to something akin to “fan-made” content. Others took to social media platforms to articulate their concerns, describing the performance as "flat" or likening it to sketches from late-night shows.
Despite the criticisms, several Broadway veterans and Grande supporters championed her performance. Kristin Chenoweth, who originated the role of Glinda on Broadway, attended one of the film screenings and shared her enthusiasm on social media. "Oh my gosh, I'm dying. I'm actually dead, I'm not here," she exclaimed. Chenoweth praised both Grande and Cynthia Erivo's portrayal of Elphaba, noting how special and impactful the film is.
Chenoweth wasn't the only Broadway star to support Grande. Other actors who previously portrayed Glinda also attended premieres and expressed admiration for Grande’s fresh take on the beloved character. Ginna Claire Mason, who starred as Glinda on tour, shared her glowing review, stating the movie "exceeded my wildest expectations." McKenzie Kurtz, who played Glinda on Broadway recently, echoed similar sentiments, celebrating Grande’s ability to embody the character with heart and humor.
Grande’s supportive co-stars have also been vocal about their excitement for her portrayal. Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba, and other cast members have expressed confidence in Grande’s performance, noting her unique interpretation of the character. Amidst the evaluative buzz, it’s evident the cast maintains a solid camaraderie and supportive atmosphere as they navigate their promotional events.
At the premiere, we also got to see moments of genuine affection among the cast. Grande was spotted adjusting the bow tie of her boyfriend, Ethan Slater, indicating the personal connections extending beyond their professional duties. Such gestures highlight the warm and supportive environment cultivated among the Wicked team as they prepare for the film’s release.
Adding to the excitement, Grande's co-star Michelle Yeoh made headlines herself. At the Los Angeles premiere, she debuted her stunning blonde bob and elegant Balenciaga gown, creating buzz among fans. Grande was one of the first to react, excitingly shouting, "Michelle!" upon seeing her co-star's new look. This joyful moment exemplified not just their working relationship but also their appreciation for each other's styles and performances.
These behind-the-scenes interactions contribute to the anticipation for Wicked, which is set to be released in two parts. Part One is scheduled for November 22, 2024, followed by Part Two on November 26, 2025. The staggered release dates hint at Hollywood's efforts to keep audiences engaged and excited through two immersive cinematic experiences. With the stakes this high, all eyes are undoubtedly on the Wicked team as the premiere dates approach.
With Grande at the helm, the adaptation is set to redefine how audiences perceive this cherished musical. The script’s depth, coupled with Grande’s musical background, promises new dimensions to the familiar story of friendship, good, and evil within the Land of Oz. All the buzz leads to one question: Will audiences embrace Grande’s Glinda as they have the stage versions over the years? Only time will tell, but with the buzz growing stronger by the minute, fans are preparing to welcome the magical experience of Wicked back to life.
This phenomenon showcases not just the star power of Ariana Grande but also the rich legacies of those who paved the way for her role. By standing on the shoulders of Broadway giants, she has the potential to enrich the Wicked story for both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Will Grande succeed in captivating hearts and bringing Glinda’s character to life anew? The world waits with bated breath, eager to experience what is sure to be one of the biggest cinematic releases of the year.
