Mon Nov 04 18:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Ariana Grande Embraces the “Challenge” of Proving Herself in “Wicked”
Pop star Ariana Grande has addressed the pressure she faces as Galinda in the upcoming “Wicked” film adaptation, admitting she understands the skepticism surrounding her casting.
Grande, a longtime fan of the Tony-winning musical, expressed her awareness of the high expectations fans have for her performance. She acknowledged the initial nervousness she felt due to preconceived notions about her abilities, but emphasized the importance of proving her worth through hard work and preparation.
“This is something I loved so much about auditioning for ‘Wicked,'” Grande explained. “It has to be earned. Anything on this scale… it’s not just given because they know for one thing. So, it’s fun to kind of have the challenge of reframing people’s perception and doing the work to earn your way back into the other spaces.”
Grande, who has been involved in musical theater since the age of eight, confidently countered potential criticisms by referencing her dedication to the role and her extensive training. She even acknowledged the skepticism she might face from fans familiar only with her pop music career.
“Going off of ‘Side to Side’, I probably would’ve said the same thing,” Grande said, referencing one of her pop hits. “I probably would’ve said, ‘Why the f—? Kill me. I’ve waited 20 years for this. Kill me.’ I would’ve said that — as a fan from the outside knowing of only ‘7 Rings’, probably — I’d say, ‘Well, that’s bull—’ So, you know, I get it.”
The two-part “Wicked” film, directed by Jon M. Chu, will see Grande star alongside Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba. The first part will premiere on November 22, 2024, with the second installment following on November 21, 2025.
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