Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo's Oscar Performance Defies Gravity and Steals the Show

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo left the Oscars stage changed for good.

On the 2nd of March, during the Oscars, I was captivated by the mesmerizing performances of my fellow cast members from Wicked. The stage of Dolby Theater, illuminated with upcoming acts from artists like Doja Cat, Blackpink’s LISA, Queen Latifah, and RAYE, became the setting for an extraordinary display. Ariana gracefully took center stage in a striking red strapless gown embellished with tulle, kicking off their performance with a moving rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” Simultaneously, Cynthia dazzled the audience in a beautiful white gown adorned with floral details as she powerfully delivered “Home.” In perfect harmony, we concluded our act by singing “Defying Gravity.” (You can find photos of all the celebrities here.)

Without a doubt, the captivating performance during the show served as another testament to the enduring appeal of the movie directed by Jon M. Chu. Not only is this evident from the enthusiastic response of the audience, but also from the fact that “Wicked” has been nominated for 10 Academy Awards, with Cynthia being recognized in the Best Actress in a Leading Role category for her portrayal of Elphaba and Ariana for her role as Glinda in the Best Actress in a Supporting Role category.

Initially, Elphaba and Glinda were more like adversaries, but there’s definitely no deep-seated hatred between them. Since the movie debuted in November, viewers have been charmed by witnessing their bond deepen, not just on the screen, but also off it.

Cynthia shared with TopMob News on the SAG Awards red carpet (February 23) that the movie was what initially brought them together, but it isn’t what maintains their bond. They were fortunate to have met through this project, but when the project ends, they remain good friends. That friendship is strong enough to keep them connected, and she still considers her co-star as her sister.

Regarding the character in the story, who will end with “Wicked: For Good” in November, the “Can’t Be Friends” singer expressed a comparable feeling.

On Penn Badgley’s podcast “Podcrushed” in June, Ariana expressed admiration for someone who stands out as exceptionally talented on a global scale. She stated, “There’s no one else quite like her.” Ariana further described their professional relationship as one where they share an unusual understanding and connection, feeling that they were meant to collaborate. Additionally, she emphasized the sense of security and mutual trust they feel in each other’s presence every day and their ability to support each other in their shared endeavors.

Alongside Ethan Slater, who started dating Ariana in 2023 after crossing paths on the movie set, commended their bond. “They established the atmosphere for everyone,” said the Boq actor during an interview with TopMob News in November 2024. “It felt like family. It felt as if we were all in this journey together, and that started with them.

As reported by Marissa Bode, the actress portraying Elphaba’s younger sibling Nessarose, the bond between Ariana and Cynthia significantly enhanced their on-stage performances.

In the shared interview, she commented, “The connection these characters share in the movie is truly inspiring. These young women are still discovering themselves and solidifying their identities, yet they have a powerful, loving bond with each other. It’s fascinating to observe and quite touching.

In a conversation with TopMob in February, the actress who played The Color of Purple’s star, Cynthia Erivo, stated, “If Cynthia and I (Ari) couldn’t support each other, then how could we possibly empathize with Elphaba and Glinda’s characters?

Keep reading to see all of the stars at the Oscars…