The most compelling narrative to emerge from the cinematic adaptation of Wicked isn't just found on the silver screen. As the second instalment, Wicked: For Good, makes its journey to cinemas, the genuine off-screen connection between its stars, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, continues to capture the public's imagination.
Fans were first enchanted by their dynamic during the extensive press tour for the first film in 2024. Their bond has proven to be as central to the Wicked phenomenon as the story of Elphaba and Glinda themselves.
The Foundation of a Wicked Bond
The pop superstar and the Tony Award-winning actress first connected in November 2021, immediately after learning they had been cast in the monumental musical project. Their initial meeting took place at Cynthia Erivo's home, where they reportedly spent five hours together, a session filled with both laughter and tears.
Ariana Grande revealed to the BBC that they established a 'really real conversation right off the bat just about creating a safe space for each other.' This foundational commitment to mutual support set the tone for their entire collaboration.
The second significant meeting occurred at a dinner hosted by director Jon M. Chu for the entire cast. It was here that Grande and Erivo sang together for the very first time. Cynthia later told the Today show that 'That was a really big moment for us. Because we can do this together, not just as actresses but as singers.'
Ink and Intimacy: The Matching Tattoos
Perhaps the most tangible symbol of their friendship emerged in 2023, during the thick of filming, when the duo got their now-famous matching 'For Good' hand tattoos. The minimalist font tattoos are placed on their hands so that when they hold hands, the words touch.
Director Jon M. Chu admitted to The New York Times that he had cautioned them to wait until after they had seen the finished film before getting any movie-related ink. He joked, 'They opted to ignore me and got them on, like, day 3 of rehearsals.'
Their matching ink collection extends further, including poppies on the outer edge of their hands, a likely reference to the Wizard of Oz's poppy field. On the backs of their ankles, they have small hearts containing the first letter of their character's name, serving a dual purpose. Ariana's 'E' stands for both Elphaba and Erivo, while Cynthia's 'G' represents Glinda and Grande. Erivo has even teased to Le Quotidien that they have additional tattoos that remain private.
A Viral Press Tour and Lasting Connection
By early 2024, their partnership had expanded beyond the film set. They presented an Oscar together, performed at the Met Gala, and attended major events like the Super Bowl and the Paris Olympics. However, it was the Wicked press tour that truly cemented their status as a beloved duo.
A particularly viral moment occurred in November 2024 during an interview where journalist Tracy E Gilchrist spoke about people 'holding space' with the lyrics of 'Defying Gravity'. Cynthia Erivo's tearful, somewhat baffling response, coupled with Ariana Grande delicately holding her friend's finger, became an instant internet sensation.
The pair later confessed to Variety that they were as confused by the exchange as viewers were. Ariana stated, 'I didn't know what any part of it meant... I feel really relieved that the world had the same experience with this moment that I did.'
As the press tour for Wicked: For Good commenced in November 2025, their public appearances have been more measured. Cynthia Erivo told Harper's Bazaar about wanting to create 'separation' between herself and Elphaba, noting 'Elphaba will be part of my life forever, but we need separation. We're not one and the same anymore, but we can be friends.'
Yet, their solidarity remains unwavering. When Cynthia recently fell ill and lost her voice, forcing her to skip interviews for the New York premiere, Ariana Grande also withdrew from press duties in a show of support.
From their first meeting filled with laughter and tears to their coordinated public support, the Wicked experience has showcased a friendship that has, true to the film's most emotional song, changed both Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande for good.
