The excitement around Wicked—the much-anticipated film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical—has been palpable, but behind the magic, a storm has been brewing between its two leading stars, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. What was supposed to be a harmonious collaboration has reportedly turned into a volatile relationship, with insiders claiming that Grande and Erivo’s off-screen chemistry is as strained as the rivalry between their iconic characters, Glinda and Elphaba.
Tension behind the scenes of Wicked: A brewing feud between Grande and Erivo
While audiences were expecting an on-screen spectacle that would showcase the bond between the two leading ladies, sources close to the production say that the relationship between Grande, 31, and Erivo, 37, has been anything but friendly. Insiders have described the environment on set as toxic, with Grande, a global superstar, reportedly acting as though she is “the center of attention” at all times, something that has caused significant friction with Erivo.
Erivo, who is the lead in Wicked as Elphaba, has been described as growing increasingly frustrated with the diva demands of Grande. While Grande is known for her powerful voice and international fame, Erivo is no stranger to the spotlight, having garnered critical acclaim for her performances in The Color Purple and other major projects. However, according to a source, there’s been a noticeable disparity in the way the two have been treated on set.
“Cynthia is actually the lead in Wicked, but Ariana is the global superstar,” an insider revealed. “Ariana’s used to being the center of attention, and working as part of a team isn’t something she does well. She doesn’t like promoting other people—even if it helps her!” This imbalance, insiders claim, has led to an ongoing rivalry behind the scenes, with Grande reportedly resenting Erivo’s star power and Erivo feeling undermined by Grande’s presence.
The diva demands: Ariana’s star treatment causes tension with Erivo
Sources also hint at a more personal issue between the two women. While both Grande and Erivo initially spoke glowingly about each other in interviews, with Erivo even claiming that she had “gained a sister” in Grande, the reality appears far different. Their relationship, it seems, was not as flawless as they made it seem to the public. Erivo has opened up about how their interactions included some “difficult conversations,” a sign that their connection may have had some cracks beneath the surface.
Another insider claims that Grande’s diva demands have caused her to clash with Erivo on multiple occasions. Reports suggest that Grande expected certain accommodations and privileges that Erivo felt were unwarranted, especially considering their roles in the film. “Cynthia felt overlooked and disrespected,” the source said, adding that Grande’s inflated sense of self-importance only fueled Erivo’s frustrations.
The brewing feud allegedly reached a breaking point when Grande was reportedly given a much higher salary than Erivo, which was initially denied by Universal Pictures reps. Although both stars were said to have received equal pay, rumors of a massive disparity persisted, further fueling the tension between them.
Could a tour together be in the works? Not so fast.
Adding more fuel to the fire, there were whispers that Erivo had hoped to collaborate with Grande after the film’s release—possibly even going on a tour together. However, insiders close to Grande quickly shot down that idea, claiming that Grande “doesn’t share her fans or her success.” The notion of Grande and Erivo performing together post-release now seems highly unlikely, and many believe the tension on set will prevent any future collaborations between the two.
“It will never happen,” one insider scoffed. “Ariana doesn’t share her spotlight with anyone, let alone someone who is supposed to be her co-star.” These sentiments reflect an ongoing narrative about Grande’s tendency to overshadow those around her, even when working alongside equally talented individuals like Erivo.
The wicked truth: Is Ariana’s reputation on the line?
The drama between the two stars has sparked widespread discussion, particularly about Grande’s reputation. Known for her chart-topping hits and show-stopping performances, Grande has nonetheless found herself at the center of controversy over the years, with multiple reports suggesting she can be difficult to work with. In fact, some insiders believe this behind-the-scenes drama only confirms long-standing rumors about Grande’s personality and working style.
“Her reputation isn’t the best,” a source revealed. “So these Wicked reports aren’t tough to believe.” While Grande continues to dominate the entertainment world, her relationships with fellow stars seem to leave a trail of conflict in their wake.
Netizens React to the Grande-Erivo Feud
Social media users have been vocal about the alleged feud, with many expressing surprise at the tensions between the two. Here’s what some had to say:
- “I was really hoping for Ariana and Cynthia to get along, but I guess that was too much to ask. #WickedFeud” — @AriFan123
- “The Wicked drama behind the scenes is honestly more interesting than the movie itself at this point. #ArianaGrande #CynthiaErivo” — @TheatreLover88
- “If Ariana and Cynthia can’t work it out, how will they ever tour together? Too much ego on both sides. #WickedDrama” — @BroadwayVibes
- “Not surprised by the tension. Ariana has always had a reputation for being hard to work with. #Wicked” — @DramaAlert101
- “I feel bad for Cynthia Erivo, honestly. She deserves more respect on set. #Wicked” — @MusicalFanatic2024
- “The fact that Ariana is getting paid ten times more than Cynthia just screams unfair. #Wicked” — @FilmBuff2024
Conclusion: A Toxic Working Relationship or Just the Spotlight at Work?
Whether the feud between Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo is a temporary fallout or a long-term problem remains to be seen. However, it’s clear that tensions have risen behind the scenes of Wicked, casting a shadow over what should have been a magical collaboration. With rumors of diva behavior, salary disparities, and personal conflicts, the drama between the two women might end up being the biggest story of Wicked after all.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.