Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, stars of the highly anticipated “Wicked: For Good”, have chosen to skip interviews at the New York City premiere of the film on Monday, November 17, 2025, after Erivo fell ill and lost her voice, according to a statement from Universal Pictures. Despite this, the duo will still make a red carpet appearance together, highlighting their enduring friendship both on and off screen.
The two actresses, who play Glinda (Grande) and Elphaba (Erivo), often attend press events as a pair. Universal Pictures confirmed, “Unfortunately, Cynthia is not feeling well and has lost her voice, therefore she and Ariana will not be doing interviews this evening.”
Other cast members expected at the premiere include Jonathan Bailey, director Jon M. Chu, Marissa Bode, Bowen Yang, Ethan Slater, Colman Domingo, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum.
Challenges on the Global Promotional Tour
This announcement comes after a whirlwind international press tour that has included stops in Paris, London, and Los Angeles. Earlier this month, Grande was unable to attend the Brazil premiere due to plane safety issues. In addition, she was attacked on the red carpet during the Singapore premiere, where Erivo quickly intervened to protect her co-star. The assailant, identified as Johnson Wen, was sentenced to nine days in jail.
Speaking to Variety on November 15, Erivo reflected on the challenging week, saying, “We have come through some s—. I mean, f—, even this last week, let’s be honest.”
Despite the obstacles, Grande and Erivo remain close friends and a united team, demonstrating resilience both personally and professionally.
Onscreen Magic: Glinda and Elphaba
The connection between Glinda and Elphaba forms the emotional backbone of the upcoming Wicked sequel, set to hit theaters on Friday, November 21, 2025. The film picks up after the events of Wicked: Part One, following Elphaba, now branded as the Wicked Witch of the West, as she continues her fight for the freedom of Oz’s silenced Animals and strives to expose the Wizard’s secrets.
Meanwhile, Glinda has embraced her glamorous persona, becoming the celebrated symbol of goodness in Emerald City, reassuring Oz’s citizens under the guidance of Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh).
The sequel also introduces two new songs by Stephen Schwartz, including “No Place Like Home” performed by Erivo and “The Girl in the Bubble” sung by Grande, providing fans with fresh musical moments alongside the original Broadway hits.
Behind the Scenes: A Strong Friendship
Grande and Erivo’s off-screen friendship is as remarkable as their on-screen chemistry. Erivo has described singing with Grande as “really exhilarating — a little bit addictive.” She noted that the pair developed a unique communication system during the press tour for Wicked: Part One, allowing them to support each other without words.
“There were days where it’s like, ‘I’m exhausted and I don’t really have it today,’ and she’d be like, ‘Well, I’ve got it. What’s the word we need to use?’” Erivo said. “And when the tables were turned, I’d tell Ariana the same: ‘I’ve got you. What do you need?’”
Their teamwork extends beyond interviews and rehearsals, reflecting the deep trust and camaraderie that drives the success of Wicked: For Good.
Looking Ahead
Despite the travel delays, health setbacks, and past red carpet attacks, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo continue to shine as a powerhouse duo in the world of musical cinema. Fans can look forward to experiencing their performances on the big screen when Wicked: For Good releases in theaters November 21, 2025.
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