Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, co-stars in the recently released film adaptation of "Wicked: For Good," have found themselves at the center of a viral storm due to their demonstrative displays of affection during the movie's press tour. The pair's constant touching, hand-holding, and emotional moments have sparked a meme fest online, with fans reacting in a variety of ways, including expressing amusement and, for some, discomfort.
The "Wicked" co-stars' behavior first gained widespread attention in November 2024, when Grande was seen holding Erivo's finger during an emotional interview. This seemingly small gesture ignited a social media frenzy, with many users questioning the nature of their relationship. The speculation intensified as the press tour continued, with more instances of physical closeness between the two stars. A video of Erivo affectionately touching and kissing Grande's arm after their producer briefly touched it also went viral, further fueling the rumors.
Grande addressed the viral finger-holding incident and the general frequency of touch between her and Erivo during an interview on Amy Poehler's "Good Hang" podcast. Grande explained that she channels energy through her hands and often finds herself holding or squeezing something. She added that she likes to channel support and energy to those around her through touch. Poehler praised the actresses for their close bond and supportive behavior, noting how women in the public eye are often pitted against each other.
Erivo has also spoken about her bond with Grande, referring to the singer as her sister. In an interview with NBC News, Erivo emphasized the deep and lasting friendship between them, stating that they have both learned from and supported each other throughout the "Wicked" experience. She also addressed an incident in Singapore where she intervened when an influencer grabbed Grande, stating that her instinct was to ensure her friend's safety.
Despite these explanations, the online meme culture surrounding Grande and Erivo's PDA continues to thrive. Many fans find the interactions endearing and a testament to a strong female friendship. Others, however, have expressed feeling that the displays are performative or even "cringe-worthy," leading to countless memes and parodies.
Adding another layer to the narrative, some sources allege that the on-screen camaraderie between Grande and Erivo is a façade. Star Magazine, citing an unnamed source, reported that the co-stars "don't get along at all" and that their relationship became so strained during filming that a mediator was hired. This claim contradicts the actresses' public statements about their close friendship, further fueling the debate among fans.
Regardless of the true nature of their relationship, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo's viral PDA has undeniably captured the public's attention. The "Wicked" co-stars have provided ample fodder for social media commentary, sparking conversations about friendship, performance, and the scrutiny faced by women in the entertainment industry. As the meme fest continues, one thing is clear: the public remains fascinated by the dynamic between these two talented stars.
