Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo made a heartfelt appearance at the final New York City premiere of “Wicked: For Good” on Monday, November 17, 2025, walking the red carpet together in solidarity despite Erivo losing her voice. The two actresses, who star as Glinda and Elphaba respectively, skipped most press interviews due to Erivo’s illness but still delighted fans and photographers with their visible camaraderie.
Universal Pictures had confirmed prior to the event that Erivo was unwell, prompting the decision to limit press interactions. The studio stated, “Unfortunately, Cynthia is not feeling well and has lost her voice, therefore she and Ariana will not be doing interviews this evening.”
Solidarity on the Red Carpet
Grande and Erivo walked arm-in-arm, holding hands, and made several stops on the red carpet for photographs with co-stars Jonathan Bailey, Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, Ethan Slater, and director Jon M. Chu. Grande humorously explained to livestream host Justin Sylvester, “I’m not letting her speak. She has to rest her voice! It’s so full circle to be in New York City where the Gershwin [Theatre] is, where Wicked is, and to be celebrating tonight together.”
A hoarse Erivo echoed the sentiment, adding, “It’s really beautiful that we’re finishing here, where it started.” Grande also highlighted Erivo’s accomplishments outside of Wicked, referencing her Grammy-nominated solo album and forthcoming book Simply More, while ensuring her co-star’s voice was preserved. Grande remarked, “There’s only so much the human body can endure,” reinforcing the supportive energy between the two actresses.
Overcoming a Challenging Press Tour
The premiere marked the culmination of a global promotional tour for the second installment of the Wicked films. The journey has been eventful: Grande missed the Brazil premiere due to plane safety concerns and was assaulted on the Singapore red carpet, where Erivo intervened to protect her. The assailant was subsequently sentenced to nine days in jail.
Erivo reflected on the week’s challenges during a Los Angeles screening on November 16, stating, “We have come through some s—. I mean, f—, even this last week, let’s be honest.” Despite the obstacles, the actresses’ professionalism and bond remained strong.
Glinda and Elphaba on Screen
In Wicked: For Good, the story continues from 2024’s Wicked: Part One, following Elphaba as she struggles with her status as Oz’s exiled “Wicked Witch of the West,” fighting for the freedom of the silenced Animals and exposing the Wizard’s secrets. Glinda, meanwhile, embraces her glamorous public persona, serving as a symbol of goodness in Emerald City while navigating fame and public expectations.
The sequel introduces new musical numbers by Stephen Schwartz, including “No Place Like Home” performed by Erivo and “The Girl in the Bubble” sung by Grande, adding fresh highlights for fans of the Broadway-inspired franchise.
Behind-the-Scenes Friendship
The friendship between Grande and Erivo has been widely celebrated. They have supported each other throughout the press tours, often developing private signals and routines to communicate during long promotional days. Grande and Erivo even got matching “For Good” tattoos on their palms, symbolizing their strong bond.
Director Jon M. Chu praised their professionalism, noting, “They could have hated each other. There could have been insane divaship, but they always put Wicked bigger than themselves… they could immerse themselves in Elphaba and Glinda and find themselves within these characters.”
Looking Ahead
Fans can finally experience the magic of Wicked: For Good in theaters starting Friday, November 21, 2025. The final New York premiere served as a celebration of both the film and the enduring friendship between its leading actresses, highlighting their dedication, resilience, and star power.
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