Ariana Grande tells us why her “Glinda” is a little queer!
Pop icon, vocal powerhouse, and all-round legend Ariana Grande is making headlines again â and no, itâs not for dropping another chart-topping banger (though we wouldnât say no to one). Instead, itâs her role in the upcoming Wicked movie thatâs got everyone gagging, especially the queer community. Ariana recently opened up about the experience of filming the much-anticipated musical and the fabulous role itâs playing in her life right now.
If thereâs one thing we love about Ari (besides her four-octave range, obvs), itâs her ability to connect with LGBTQ+ fans on a deeper level. And Wicked, with its themes of love, acceptance, and fighting societal norms, is a story that resonates hard with our community. So, grab your glitter and settle in, because weâre about to spill all the tea on why Ariâs Wicked era is a queer dream come true.
Ariana as Glinda: A Match Made in Gay Heaven
Ariana Grande stepping into the iconic role of Glinda the Good Witch feels like destiny. From her early Broadway days to becoming the chart-topping diva we know and love, Ari has always had that theatrical flair â and letâs be honest, no one rocks a blonde wig quite like her.
In a recent interview, Ariana described working on Wicked as âlife-changing.â She praised the inclusivity of the cast and crew, saying the production felt like a âsafe and creative space for everyone involved.â For a story that champions individuality and defies labels, itâs no surprise the vibe on set is just as magical.
Letâs not forget that Wicked is a major cultural touchstone for the LGBTQ+ community. Its central themes of self-discovery and challenging societal expectations are basically the gay agenda in musical form. Add Ariâs queer icon status into the mix, and youâve got a recipe for something truly iconic.
Why Wicked Means So Much to the LGBTQ+ Community
If youâve ever sobbed your way through âDefying Gravityâ (same, babes), you already know why Wicked holds a special place in queer hearts. The story of Elphaba and Glinda â two women defying societal norms and forming a deep, complex bond â feels like a metaphor for every queer person whoâs ever dared to be different.
The musical has long been interpreted as a queer allegory, with Elphabaâs âothernessâ reflecting the struggles many LGBTQ+ people face. The line âWho can say if Iâve been changed for the better?â hits differently when you think about the friendships and relationships that shape our queer journeys.
And letâs not forget the fandom. Whether youâre belting out âPopularâ at karaoke or living your best life at a drag brunch featuring Elphaba realness, Wicked is an integral part of queer culture.
A Queer Cast? Yes, Please!
Ariana isnât the only reason weâre excited about Wicked. The film, directed by Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians, anyone?), has been celebrated for its diverse casting. Cynthia Erivo â an out and proud queen â is playing Elphaba, and honestly, we couldnât think of a better person to bring the green girlâs story to life.
Cynthia recently spoke about how her own experiences as a queer woman have shaped her approach to the role, and weâre already predicting Oscar buzz. Her chemistry with Ari is bound to bring a new depth to the Glinda-Elphaba dynamic, and weâre so here for it.
What We Know About the Film So Far
The Wicked movie is being split into two parts (double the drama, double the fun). The first instalment is set to drop in late 2024, and anticipation is already sky-high. Fans are scouring social media for sneak peeks, with Ariana sharing adorable behind-the-scenes snaps from the set.
Rumour has it the film will include some new songs alongside the classics, which means we might get an Ariana original in the Wicked soundtrack. Can you imagine the vocals? Someone pass the smelling salts.
Why Ariâs Queer Fans Adore Her
Ariana Grande has always had a special connection with the LGBTQ+ community. From her support for marriage equality to her headlining performance at Manchester Pride, sheâs never shied away from being an ally. Her music, often described as empowering and cathartic, has soundtracked countless queer experiences.
And letâs not forget her personal style â campy, glamorous, and unapologetically over-the-top. Whether sheâs serving lewks on stage or sashaying into a movie set, Ariana embodies the kind of extra we all aspire to be.
Final Thoughts
With its inclusive cast, powerful message, and Ariana Grande as its star, the Wicked movie is shaping up to be a cultural reset. Itâs not just a musical; itâs a celebration of individuality, friendship, and the courage to be yourself â themes that strike a chord with queer fans everywhere.
As we count down the days until the filmâs release, one thingâs for sure: Ariana and Wicked are about to serve main character energy. And honestly, we wouldnât have it any other way.
So, darlings, keep your glitter ready and your vocal cords warmed up â weâre all going to be defying gravity together very soon.
Stay tuned for all the fabulousness coming your way! đ