Ariana Grande graced the WSJ Innovator Awards with an ethereal charm reminiscent of a fairytale princess. The singer and actress donned a striking white sheer corset gown designed by Vivienne Westwood, complete with a grand, flowing skirt that added an air of elegance to her presence. Complementing her outfit, she adorned herself with sparkling Swarovski jewelry while her hair was styled in a chic bun, adding to the overall sophisticated aesthetic. The event took place at the iconic Museum of Modern Art in New York City, where Grande was captured sharing joyful moments with her ‘Wicked’ co-star Cynthia Erivo.
Grande and Erivo’s chemistry isn’t merely a product of on-screen collaboration but stems from a conscious effort to cultivate a genuine friendship during the production of the highly anticipated musical fantasy film. In a transparent chat with *Vanity Fair*, they reflected on their intention to foster a bond unlike that of their predecessors, Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel, who were often embroiled in rumors of tension during their time in *Wicked* on Broadway. Recognizing the importance of camaraderie, the duo committed to a communication strategy that was both open and heartfelt. “We communicated like the champions of communication of the world,” Grande remarked, emphasizing their proactive approach to nurturing their relationship.
Erivo echoed Grande’s sentiments, highlighting the essence of love and connection that guided their interactions throughout the filming process. She articulated the necessity of being attuned to each other’s needs, stating, “There are days when she’s gonna need space, and there are days when I’m gonna need space. But because we love each other very dearly, it’s okay.” This profound understanding of one another reflects a maturity that transcends the pressures of working in the entertainment industry, presenting a refreshing narrative amidst tales of rivalries and discord.
In a moment charged with emotion, Grande conveyed the depth of their friendship, struggling to hold back tears as she acknowledged their efforts to truly understand each other’s backgrounds and challenges. “We both really took the time to get to know the other person and where we’ve been,” she shared, showcasing the therapeutic aspect of their bond.
With *Wicked – Part 1* set to be released in theaters on November 22, 2024, fans can eagerly anticipate not only the visual spectacle of the film but also the authentic relationships that have been nurtured behind the scenes. Grande and Erivo’s commitment to fostering a loving environment whilst navigating the complexities of their roles speaks volumes about their characters and the magic that *Wicked* aims to bring to audiences worldwide. Their journey exemplifies that even within the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, authenticity and friendship can create something truly magical.