Cynthia Erivo Says She and Ariana Grande Were ‘Holding on by Threads’ at End of “Wicked” Press Tours

Cynthia Erivo has opened up about the emotional toll of filming and promoting the much-anticipated adaptation of *Wicked*, alongside Ariana Grande. In a candid interview with Variety, the Tony Award-winning actress revealed that both she and Grande felt they were “holding on by threads” during the final stages of their press tour for the dual feature film.

Their journey together over the past four years has not only solidified their friendship but has also exposed them to intense scrutiny from fans and media alike. Erivo shared her reflections on how public perception often diverges from the reality of their experiences. “It’s very interesting, watching what people’s perception is versus what the reality actually is,” she remarked. This disconnect became evident as fans speculated about their relationship and their emotional states throughout the promotional events, often mischaracterising their bond.

Erivo emphasised that Grande and she have remained close, communicating almost daily despite the frenzy surrounding the film’s release. She noted that the nature of her work frequently requires her to adopt different personas, leading to misunderstandings about her true character. “If I’m honest, people thought I was being myself, even though I was green,” she explained, referring to her portrayal of Elphaba, the iconic green-skinned witch.

The press tour was not without its challenges, and Erivo recounted a particularly distressing moment during the Singapore premiere of *Wicked: For Good*. In a frightening incident, a fan jumped over a barrier in an attempt to reach Grande. “Nobody moved. Nobody moved,” Erivo remembered, illustrating the chaos of the moment. “My immediate reaction was ‘Get him away from us.’ And what people couldn’t see is that he wouldn’t let go [of Grande]. He wouldn’t let go.” Protecting her co-star became instinctual for Erivo, who was driven by an urgent need to ensure their safety amidst the panic.

Following the incident, social media erupted with footage and memes surrounding the confrontation, which led Erivo to reflect on the societal perceptions of Black women. She suggested that the ridicule that emerged online was a manifestation of deeper issues regarding race and body image. “I’m sure people will read this and think, ‘Oh, for goodness’ sake, it’s not about that.’ But it is,” she asserted, noting that the focus of the jokes related to her bodily appearance and the assumptions made based on it.

Erivo further elaborated on how these narratives can often paint Black women in specific roles, suggesting that because she is perceived as larger than Grande, it automatically placed her in a protective position. “I would hazard a guess that it would not have been the same had it been the other way around,” she said, highlighting the disparities in how individuals are viewed based on race and physique.

The duo has been an inspiration for many, with their friendship blossoming under the immense pressure of filming and promoting *Wicked*. Despite the trials they faced, Erivo expressed a strong bond with Grande that transcends the public’s perception. “If I’m a friend, then I’m a friend. If I’m not, then I’m not,” she clarified, affirming her commitment to their relationship during and beyond the production.

As the conversations around race and representation continue to evolve, Erivo’s experiences shed light on the realities faced by women of colour in the entertainment industry. Her reflections invite a broader discussion about the treatment of public figures and the underlying societal attitudes that inform these interactions.

As *Wicked* draws closer to its release, both Erivo and Grande are not only preparing for the next phase of their careers but also contributing to an important dialogue about friendship, safety, and the nuances of representation in today’s world. Their journey serves as a reminder of the complexities that come with fame and the need for empathy and understanding in an increasingly scrutinising environment.