Wicked stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo ‘took care’ of each other during heavily-mocked press tour: ‘We’re quite funny’
Wicked stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo have addressed their widely mocked emotional reactions during the hugely successful musical’s press tour.
Grande, 31, revealed she and Enviro, 37, took “care of one another” during the demanding press campaign which resulted in a number of viral moments.
Interviews during press junkets resulted in a series of bizarre soundbites with the starring pair often emotionally breaking down after hearing seemingly innocuous comments.
“We are grateful and floating,” Grande told Variety, responding to concerned questions about their well being during promotional events.
“We can giggle at it all we want, because we’re quite funny. I’ve watched and had a giggle,” Grande admitted.
The 31-year-old pop star emphasised that working on the project has been “a privilege”, highlighting the genuine care between cast members.
Grande celebrated their ability to “take care of one another” while promoting the film.
In a notable move for Hollywood, Grande and Erivo revealed they collaborated on contract negotiations to ensure equal pay for their roles as Galinda and Elphaba.
Director Jon M. Chu praised the arrangement, stating: “This is a modern production. This is what Hollywood should reflect. These are co-CEOs of Wicked Inc.”
The £120million-budget fantasy film has proven a remarkable box office success, amassing £518m globally since its November release.
Despite Grande and Erivo’s emotional moments making headlines, it was revealed that co-star Jeff Goldblum, who played the Wizard of Oz, was actually the most moved during filming.
“Every time I would look at him he’d be quietly in a corner, like, watching what’s going on crying,” Grande shared with Variety.
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The film has garnered critical acclaim alongside its commercial success, positioning itself as a strong awards season contender.
Cynthia Erivo will compete for best actress in a musical/comedy at this Sunday’s Golden Globe Awards on CBS/Paramount+.
Both stars are eagerly anticipating potential Oscar nominations, set to be announced on January 17.
“I will raise hell if this lady does not get her nomination,” Erivo declared about her co-star.
Grande expressed equal enthusiasm for Erivo’s prospects, stating: “I can’t wait to be in the audience for all of it. But you, Miss Elphaba, deserve your flowers, and I can’t wait to hold your train as you get that EGOT.”
EGOT refers to winning an Emmy (television), Grammy (music), Oscar (film), and Tony Award (theatre) across one’s career.