Cynthia Erivo Speaks Out Over Backlash Against Ariana Grande Friendship

Cynthia Erivo has pushed back against the scrutiny surrounding her friendship with Ariana Grande, saying their openness with each other appeared to irritate some fans during the Wicked promotional tours.

In an interview with The Guardian published on October 27, the actress questioned why people were so troubled by the pair’s emotional connection, suggesting that some had taken it upon themselves to analyse their behaviour.

Their bond has continued beyond the films. In November 2025, Erivo and Grande revealed that they had each got “For Good” tattooed on their palms, a reference to the musical’s song about the lasting impact people have on one another.

Their colleagues have also celebrated the friendship. Director Jon M. Chu previously described watching it develop as “one of the most beautiful friendships to watch grow”, according to PEOPLE.

The actresses played Elphaba and Glinda in the two-part adaptation of the Broadway musical, with Wicked released in 2024 and Wicked: For Good following in 2025. Both earned Oscar nominations for their performances.

Erivo also appeared in Prima Facie, which debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival in September.