Nov
Ariana Grande Addresses Concerns Over Her Casting in Wicked: “I Totally Understand”
As a longtime fan of the Wicked musical, Ariana Grande admits that she might have had similar concerns if she were in the audience’s shoes. The pop star and Grammy winner recently opened up on the Sentimental Men podcast about her casting as Glinda the Good Witch and the mixed reactions it stirred among fans.
Grande acknowledged the initial skepticism, explaining that she understands why some fans might question her fit for the role. “I felt a little bit of that initial nervousness, or the preconceived notions about what I might bring to the part,” Grande shared when asked if she had any reservations after landing the role.
For those only familiar with her pop career, Grande said she sympathizes with their reactions. “Honestly, if I’d only heard ‘Side to Side,’ I might have thought the same thing,” she joked. “I probably would have been like, ‘Why? I’ve waited years for this! Why her?’ As a fan, knowing just ‘7 Rings,’ I’d have thought, ‘This is ridiculous.’ So, truly, I get it.”
Despite her successful music career, Grande’s casting announcement in 2021 sparked debate online. However, her background includes stage and screen experience; she previously appeared on Broadway in 13: The Musical and starred in Nickelodeon’s Victorious and Sam & Cat. She also appeared in Adam McKay’s political satire Don’t Look Up.
On the podcast, Grande explained how she learned to ignore the noise and focus on giving her best performance. “I had to tune out the criticism and just concentrate on the work,” she said. “I tried not to let it derail me.”
The first part of the two-part Wicked adaptation, set to hit theaters on November 22, will explore Glinda’s early days alongside Elphaba, portrayed by Cynthia Erivo, as they navigate life at Shiz University. The film’s cast includes notable stars like Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, Peter Dinklage, and Bowen Yang, bringing extra sparkle to this Wizard of Oz prequel.
For fans worried about her portrayal, early feedback from critics should ease their concerns. One reviewer calls Grande and Erivo’s performances “mesmerizing,” while another deems Glinda “the role Ariana Grande was born to play.”
To hear more of Grande’s thoughts on stepping into the world of Wicked, listen to her full interview on the Sentimental Men podcast.
Latest new from Owl Fashion Shop