🔗 Share this article

Regardless of your interest, the excitement surrounding Wicked: For Good is inescapable. After a hectic press tour for the initial installment, attention is now on the lead actors and the new movie in the beloved franchise.

1. They Continue to ‘Hold Space’ for One Another

Last year's press circuit was famous for the deep bond between the two stars. Tearful interviews and expressions of friendship gained significant attention. Despite jokes about being “insufferable,” their relationship remains strong. At the recent event, Erivo opted to skip interviews to protect her voice, while the other reportedly did the same as a show of support. When asked about their emotions before the final installment, they expressed “deep thankfulness.”

It was shared that Cynthia Erivo lost her voice and would not be doing interviews at the ‘Wicked: For Good’ premiere. Her co-star also skipped media appearances to stand with her.

2. … and Often, They Are Physically Close

The sight of two successful women in their 30s frequently fussing over each other has fueled online speculation. They share multiple matching tattoos inspired by the franchise, such as “Permanently” inside their hands. In a recent podcast, Grande explained that their goal is to “look after each other” and that she “channels energy” through physical touch.

{3. An Overzealous ‘Fan’ Took It Too Far

During the Singapore premiere, an individual jumped over the red carpet and rushed toward one of the stars. Her co-star immediately intervened to protect her before security apprehended the assailant. Identified as a self-described “prankster,” he afterwards posted footage of the incident online, which was widely condemned. Subsequent legal charges and received to jail.

{4. Grande and Slater Are Reportedly ‘Doing Great!!!’

Ariana Grande’s partner, Ethan Slater, also appears in the sequel. They connected during production of the original, during prior relationships. Despite online sharing, they have avoided interviews together and have been separated in group photos, fueling breakup speculation. However, sources familiar with the couple recently denied these claims, affirming that things are “fine” between them.

{5. The Film Is Encouraging Stars to Go Vegan ‘For Good’

Jeff Goldblum, portraying The Wizard of Oz, has shared that being part of the project prompted him to give up meat. Both stars are dedicated vegans, and another cast member adheres to a vegan lifestyle. This has motivated organizations to campaign to co-stars, including Jonathan Bailey, hoping to persuade them to adopt a plant-based lifestyle. To date, Bailey remains non-committal but has praised the movie's themes of tolerance.

{6. The Yellow-Brick Road Is Paved With Gold …

Pre-sale numbers for the sequel are apparently exceeding those of the original. In the UK cinemas, tickets are selling at more than twice the pace. The movie has also inspired countless product tie-ins, including drinks to TV events. The city even showcased a promotional yellow brick display with musical quotes. Given the success, fans have speculation about a potential next installment.

{7. … and Could Be Leading Grande Away From Music

Ariana Grande has indicated that her forthcoming concert series—her first in almost a decade—might be her last for a “very long time.” She appears to be shifting to acting, such as an upcoming project with renowned actors. Additionally, she has cultivated hobbies like observing birds and showing interest in entomology. Listeners hoping for new music, it might be a long delay.