Milo Manheim, known for his role in the off-Broadway show Little Shop of Horrors, recently shared his thoughts on the friendship between Liz Gillies and Ariana Grande. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE at a Disney event, Manheim expressed his admiration for the bond between the two performers, describing them as “such kind souls” and “such theater girlies.”
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/_Milo-Manheim-Elizabeth-Gillies-and-Ariana-Grande-051625-5827b275f79b47e591d8a220da4cc5d4.jpg)
The connection between Gillies and Grande became evident to Manheim when Grande came to see the production on April 26 to support her longtime friend Liz Gillies. Manheim, who plays a role alongside Gillies in the theatrical production, remarked, “It makes such sense that they are friends. They’re both such kind souls, both such theater girlies.” He added that seeing Grande there to support Gillies was heartwarming, with both of them relishing in the joy of being in a theater environment like old times.
Gillies, 31, and Grande, 27, first crossed paths as children when they starred together in the Broadway production of 13. Their friendship blossomed further when they both appeared on the Nickelodeon series Victorious from 2010 to 2013. The show marked Grande’s introduction to television and laid the groundwork for her successful music career.
Throughout the years, their friendship has remained solid, with Grande even inviting Gillies to appear in her “Thank U, Next” music video in 2019. Gillies has described Grande as being like a sister to her, emphasizing the deep bond they share. Grande has reciprocated these sentiments through heartfelt gestures, such as a touching birthday tribute on Instagram Stories for Gillies’ 30th birthday in 2023.
The pair’s enduring friendship has captured the hearts of fans, with many admiring the genuine connection they share. Grande and Gillies’ unwavering support for each other, both personally and professionally, serves as a testament to the strength of their relationship and the bond they have nurtured over the years.
As Manheim reflected on witnessing the camaraderie between Gillies and Grande, it was evident that their friendship transcends the boundaries of Hollywood and showcases a genuine connection rooted in mutual respect and admiration. Their journey from childhood co-stars to lifelong friends continues to inspire those around them, highlighting the importance of nurturing meaningful relationships in an industry known for its transient nature.
The chemistry between Gillies and Grande serves as a reminder of the power of friendship and the significance of having a support system in the entertainment industry. As they continue to navigate their respective careers, their unwavering bond stands as a beacon of light, demonstrating the beauty of genuine connections amidst the fast-paced world of show business.
In conclusion, Milo Manheim’s insights into the friendship between Liz Gillies and Ariana Grande provide a glimpse into the genuine and enduring bond shared between the two talented performers. As they navigate the highs and lows of Hollywood, their friendship remains a constant source of strength and inspiration, showcasing the beauty of authentic connections in an industry often characterized by fleeting relationships.