The cultural phenomenon that is Wicked has returned with full force, and its leading ladies, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, are once again commanding global attention with their profound bond and the sequel's monumental success. As Wicked: For Good prepares for its UK premiere, here are the seven crucial details you need to grasp about the film, its stars, and the whirlwind surrounding it.
An Unbreakable Bond and Red Carpet Drama
The connection between Grande and Erivo, forged during the first film's press tour, remains as intense as ever. Known for their emotional interviews and mutual adoration, the pair have continued their supportive dynamic. At the recent New York premiere, Erivo declined interviews to preserve her voice, and Grande reportedly skipped press 'in solidarity', instead using the spotlight to promote her co-star's future projects. Their relationship was physically demonstrated in a more alarming context at the Singapore premiere, where Erivo instantly stepped in to shield Grande from an overzealous fan who breached security.
This protective instinct is part of a broader, tactile friendship. The stars share four matching Wicked-themed tattoos, including the phrase 'For good' on their palms. Grande has described channeling energy through her hands, frequently stating, 'I'm always holding a hand', a sentiment that encapsulates their close-knit partnership.
Behind the Scenes: Relationships and a Shift to Screen
Speculation about Grande's personal life has been a constant undercurrent. Her relationship with co-star Ethan Slater, which began during the filming of the first instalment, has been the subject of rumour, particularly as they have maintained distance during recent promotional events. However, sources close to the couple have vehemently denied any split, telling outlets that 'everything's great between them'.
Professionally, Grande is signalling a significant move away from her pop music roots. She revealed that her upcoming tour, supporting her 2024 album Eternal Sunshine, will likely be her 'last hurrah' for a considerable time. Instead, she is focusing on her acting career, with an Oscar nomination for Wicked: For Good a strong possibility and a role in the comedy Focker-in-Law alongside Robert De Niro confirmed for next November.
The Film's Impact: Veganism and Box Office Gold
The themes of Wicked are having a tangible effect on its cast. Veteran actor Jeff Goldblum announced that his involvement led him to give up meat, joining longtime vegans Grande and Erivo. This has prompted animal rights group Peta to campaign for co-star Jonathan Bailey to also adopt a plant-based diet, sending him a bottle of non-dairy Baileys in a playful stunt.
The public's appetite for the film itself appears insatiable. In the UK, advance ticket sales are shattering records, with Vue reporting sales at more than twice the rate of the first film. Odeon had sold over 250,000 presale tickets by mid-week, nearly double their part one numbers. The marketing campaign has been inescapable, from product tie-ins like Robinsons' green squash to a promotional yellow-brick road installation on London's Brick Lane. With such staggering success, it's little wonder Grande has hinted that a third film adaptation is not out of the question, remarking, 'There's always a farewell tour.'
