Judy Garland’s Daughter Lorna Luft Responds to Ariana Grande’s Oscars Performance
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Lorna Luft, the daughter of the legendary Judy Garland known for her portrayal of Dorothy in the classic 1939 film ‘The Wizard of Oz’, has shared her emotional reaction to the recent homage at the 2025 Oscars. The tribute featured Ariana Grande performing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” as part of a Wicked medley.
Luft, aged 72, took to her Instagram Stories on Monday to express her gratitude, saying, “Thank you to @arianagrande, @cynthiaerivo, & @theacademy for honoring my mother’s memory so beautifully. Myself and my family are very grateful.” She signed off her message with “All Love, Lorna” along with a heart emoji.
The Wicked medley kicked off the 2025 Academy Awards, with Grande, 31, taking on the role of Glinda in the 2024 musical adaptation. She sang the iconic song originally performed by Garland’s Dorothy. Grande’s attire paid homage to Garland’s character, with a shimmering ruby red gown, matching heels adorned with bows, and a cascading tulle skirt embellished with 150,000 Siam sequins. The dress featured a unique design element with a third shoe placed on the back as a 3D trompe l’oeil.
Cynthia Erivo, known for her role as Elphaba, performed “Home” from the 1975 Broadway show ‘The Wiz’. She stunned in a strapless gown reminiscent of the one worn by Diana Ross in the musical’s 1978 movie adaptation. Erivo and Grande later duetted on “Defying Gravity”, a powerful number from the Wicked musical. Both actresses received Academy Award nominations for their performances.
Wicked, which received 10 Oscar nominations, took home two awards for Best Costume Design and Best Production Design. Paul Tazewell, the costume designer, made history as the first Black man to win in that category. The film is now available for purchase on Prime Video and Apple TV+, with a sequel, ‘Wicked: For Good’, set to premiere in theatres in November 2025.
The heartfelt homage to Judy Garland at the Oscars resonated with fans and industry insiders alike, with many praising the performances of Grande and Erivo. The blend of nostalgia and modern reimagining in the Wicked medley brought a magical moment to the prestigious awards ceremony, showcasing the enduring legacy of Garland’s unforgettable portrayal of Dorothy in ‘The Wizard of Oz’.
As the entertainment world continues to celebrate iconic figures and timeless classics, the 2025 Oscars serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of Garland’s contributions to film and music. Luft’s heartfelt response reflects the deep connection that fans and family members maintain with the legacy of Garland, ensuring that her iconic performances are cherished for generations to come.