The film adaptation of Wicked, featuring Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, has been a focal point of public discourse, not only for its artistic endeavors but also for a series of controversies that have emerged throughout its production and release.
Casting Controversy
Upon the 2021 announcement of Ariana Grande's casting as Glinda, the decision was met with skepticism from fans of the original Broadway production. Many questioned Grande's suitability for the role, given her prominence in the pop music industry. Addressing these concerns, Grande acknowledged that, from an outsider's perspective familiar only with her pop career, such doubts were understandable. She emphasized her roots in musical theater, including her Broadway debut in 2008's 13: The Musical, and expressed a commitment to authentically portraying Glinda.
During the film's production, reports surfaced of a romantic relationship between Grande and her co-star Ethan Slater, who portrays Boq. The timing of their relationship attracted media attention, as both were married to other partners when filming began in December 2022. By July 2023, Grande was seen without her wedding ring, and both she and Slater subsequently filed for divorce from their respective spouses. This development led to public scrutiny and discussions about the personal lives of the actors involved.
Speculation arose on social media regarding alleged pay disparities between Grande and her co-star Cynthia Erivo. Unverified claims suggested that Grande received a significantly higher salary than Erivo. However, Universal Pictures addressed these rumors, stating that both actresses were compensated equally for their roles in Wicked.
The film's release ignited debates over appropriate audience behavior during screenings. Some fans engaged in singing along with the film's musical numbers, leading to mixed reactions from fellow moviegoers. Grande commented on the issue, encouraging fans to enjoy themselves while being considerate of others, advising that if their actions cause disturbance, they should be mindful and possibly refrain.
The official poster for Wicked featured Grande's Glinda whispering to Erivo's Elphaba, mirroring the original Broadway artwork. Some fans created edited versions to more closely resemble the stage poster, including alterations that obscured Erivo's eyes and changed facial expressions. Erivo responded to these edits, stating that such modifications were "deeply hurtful" and degrading. Grande addressed the controversy, acknowledging the complexities of fan edits and expressing respect for Erivo's feelings on the matter.
In November 2024, Mattel released a line of Wicked dolls to coincide with the film's debut. However, it was discovered that the packaging contained incorrect website links, directing consumers to an adult entertainment site instead of the intended movie website. Mattel issued an apology for the oversight and requested that customers destroy the faulty packaging.
These incidents underscore the multifaceted challenges and public scrutiny that accompany the adaptation of a beloved musical into a major film, especially with high-profile talents like Ariana Grande involved.
Writer's Bio: Driven by a fascination with how young people learn, grow, and connect, Laura N. Larsson has spent years researching the role of play and social media in child and adolescent development. Since 2012, she has combined her ecommerce background with in-depth interviews of children and teenagers, producing insightful articles that explore the evolving interplay between play, communication, and online interaction. Read more articles by this author
Writer's Bio: Driven by a fascination with how young people learn, grow, and connect, Laura N. Larsson has spent years researching the role of play and social media in child and adolescent development. Since 2012, she has combined her ecommerce background with in-depth interviews of children and teenagers, producing insightful articles that explore the evolving interplay between play, communication, and online interaction. 
