Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande aren’t just co-stars in Wicked; they’re living proof that some friendships are meant to go beyond the screen.
Since at least 2022, these two have been inseparable, bringing their real-life bond to red carpets and social media alike, and it’s honestly the purest thing ever.
What started as a working relationship blossomed into something much deeper. Both Cynthia and Ariana have been all-in on building a true friendship outside of their roles, and it shows in the way they talk about each other, TheyGossip.com reports.
I mean, they’re not just co-stars who got along—they genuinely uplift and adore one another, and it’s impossible not to notice.
One of the most unforgettable moments? I saw this video on TikTok where Ariana was asked who’s made her a better person, and she just looked at Cynthia and started crying. Like, actual tears, right there.
That kind of raw emotion? It’s rare to see friendships that open, that vulnerable. These two have gone through the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
Glinda and Elphaba
And let’s be real, watching them go through it together just makes their friendship that much more inspiring. This is exactly what we mean when we say “friendship goals!!”
So just to give everyone a reason to fully support this friendship (not like they need it) we will go through some of the cutest moments in their relationship.
Building a Sisterhood
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s friendship was anything but accidental—it was built with intention from day one.
To prep for their roles as Elphaba and Glinda in Wicked, they made a point of spending time together.
On the 2022 SAG Awards red carpet, Erivo shared that they’d been meeting up regularly, saying, “We’re building a relationship” because they understood that Wicked is more than just a story; it’s a “sisterhood.”
This bond didn’t just happen—they actively worked to foster it, with Erivo adding, “We want to be ready and prepared to be there for one another.”
It’s safe to say that they were aiming for something bigger than co-star chemistry—they were creating a sisterhood IRL.
Cozy Hangouts and Sweet Daily Texts
Their friendship didn’t stay on set. From three-hour hangouts on Erivo’s living room floor to texting each other “I love you” at the end of every day, these two have taken their connection to another level.
A ‘Wicked’ Met Gala Moment
At the 2024 Met Gala, they turned heads with their Wicked-inspired looks and had fans swooning.
Erivo rocked a bold green ensemble as a nod to her character Elphaba, while Grande glowed in an iridescent gown fit for Glinda.
Holding hands, laughing, and radiating joy together, they were living embodiments of their roles, and they owned that red carpet like true besties on a magical mission.
Sentimental Tributes
In a sweet gesture, Erivo wore a pink ring symbolizing Grande’s Glinda during an interview at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she called Grande “one of the sweetest, kindest people I’ve ever met.”
Erivo praised their journey together, saying they’ve learned how to support each other, making this experience one she’ll always cherish.
A Floral Introduction
Following the announcement of their roles, Erivo sent Grande a bouquet with a heartfelt note that read, “Pink goes good with green. Congratulations Miss A, the part was made for you.”
Grande reciprocated with flowers and the message, “Honored doesn’t even begin to cover it. I cannot wait to hug you.”
First Rehearsals Together
After a virtual introduction in 2021, Erivo and Grande met in person in July 2022 to begin Wicked rehearsals.
They shared sweet moments, including hugging while masked, during their first in-person interactions.
Videos and photos of them rehearsing together gave fans a glimpse into their growing bond.
Matching “For Good” Tattoos
Grande and Erivo sealed their friendship with matching “For Good” tattoos on their palms.
The tattoo, inspired by the iconic Wicked song about friendship, symbolized their powerful bond. Grande also got a tattoo of Glinda on her right hand, further commemorating her role.
Wicked World Premiere
Wicked premiered in Sydney with an elaborate yellow brick road setup, as fans eagerly awaited this long-anticipated adaptation.
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande arrived hand-in-hand at the event. Erivo wore a custom black Louis Vuitton gown, while Grande donned a glamorous pink Vivienne Westwood gown, reminiscent of Glinda’s iconic style.
During the premiere, Erivo and Grande sat together on the floor, in their couture gowns, to experience the film alongside fans, symbolizing their deep connection.
Despite initially being seated separately, they chose to sit together, with Grande later saying, “We need to be together.”
