Wicked day is fast upon us: The highly-anticipated movie musical by Jon M. Chu opens on November 22nd, and ahead of its release, costars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo have been making the rounds to promote the film. From Australia to Los Angeles, the two leading ladies have been hitting the red carpet in their best Elphaba and Glinda-inspired looks—all while connecting with diehard fans around the world.
“It has felt so so incredible and special, and honestly unlike anything I’ve ever felt before in my career,” says Grande, who is a noted longtime fan of the musical. “I think the Wicked fans have been waiting for this as long as we have, so for them to have embraced us the way that they have, and show us such warmth, has been very overwhelming and emotional,” adding: “Yes, emotional— we keep crying , we know it’s annoying, I am so sorry.” After attending the Los Angeles premiere last night, Grande and Erivo took time to sign autographs and meet fans, which has been one of the most rewarding aspects of their promotional tour.
“One of the most special things to hear from them—people who have loved the musical for as long as they have—is that they have loved meeting our Elphie and Glinda, and that they think we kept our promise to take care of them,” says Grande. “It means the most coming from them.” Of course, it was sentimental to be doing this with Erivo, with whom Grande shares a special bond.
(The pair have been singing each other's praises.