Whether you're a fan or not, the buzz surrounding Wicked: For Good is unavoidable. After a hectic press tour for the initial installment, attention is now on the lead actors and the latest chapter in the popular franchise.
Last year's promotional tour was notable for the deep bond between both actresses. Tearful interviews and public displays of friendship gained significant attention. Despite teasing about being “insufferable,” their friendship appears unbreakable. During the recent event, one star opted to skip interviews to protect her voice, while the other allegedly joined her in solidarity. Inquiring about their emotions ahead of the film's finale, they expressed “overwhelming gratitude.”
It was shared that Cynthia Erivo was voiceless and could not speaking with press at the ‘Wicked: For Good’ premiere. Ariana Grande also skipped interviews in solidarity.
Observers of accomplished women in their thirties constantly fussing over each other has sparked theories. Both have multiple matching tattoos related to the franchise, such as “For good” inside their hands. On a show, one star explained that their goal is to “look after each other” and that she “expresses care” through hand-holding.
At the international event, a man breached the red carpet and attempted to grab one of the stars. Cynthia Erivo quickly intervened to shield her before security restrained the intruder. Identified as a self-described “troll,” he later posted video of the incident online, prompting widely condemned. Subsequent penalties and received to prison time.
Ariana Grande’s boyfriend, co-star, also appears in the sequel. The couple connected during filming of the first movie, amid previous marriages. Despite social media posts, the pair avoided joint press and have been separated in group photos, leading to split rumors. But, sources close to the couple have denied these claims, stating that things are “fine” between them.
A co-star, who plays The Wizard of Oz, recently revealed that working on the movie prompted him to give up meat. The two stars are longtime plant-based, and another cast member follows a vegan lifestyle. This has encouraged organizations to reach out to co-stars, including Jonathan Bailey, hoping to persuade them to switch to a plant-based diet. To date, Bailey not committed but applauded the film's message of acceptance.
Advance ticket sales for the sequel are reportedly surpassing those of the original. British cinemas, tickets are selling at more than twice the pace. It has also led to numerous promotional partnerships, from beverages to TV events. The city even featured a promotional yellow brick display with song lyrics. With such momentum, fans have talk about a potential third film.
Ariana Grande has suggested that her forthcoming tour—her first in seven years—might be her last for a “foreseeable future.” Her focus appears to be shifting to film roles, such as an upcoming movie with Robert De Niro. Meanwhile, she has cultivated hobbies like observing birds and showing curiosity in entomology. For fans hoping for new music, it might be a long delay.