The pop star and actress dives into the bond between Glinda and Elphaba, celebrating love in all its forms.
Ariana Grande, who plays Glinda the Good Witch in the highly anticipated Wicked movie adaptation, is offering a fresh perspective on the beloved musical. In an interview with Gay Times, the 31-year-old actress and singer explored the profound connection between her character and Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba, suggesting that their relationship could be seen as a queer allegory.
Grande described the duo’s bond as one rooted in love, safety, and acceptance—qualities that transcend traditional labels. “They provide such a safe space for one another,” she shared. “Which is what all relationships should be. Whether it’s romantic or platonic—Glinda might be a little in the closet—but if there were a time, you never know. Give it a little more time.”
Celebrating Oz’s Queer Essence
The Victorious alum playfully reflected on how the world of Oz itself exudes queerness. “Every day in the Emerald City is a Pride parade, right? Even the chickens… those chickens are gay,” she joked. Grande didn’t stop there, declaring Dr. Dillamond, the goat history professor at Shiz University, as a “gay icon,” noting his “Bode cardigan” and “custom tea device” as subtle nods to his fabulousness.
The queer subtext in Wicked and its original source, The Wizard of Oz, isn’t lost on Grande. She highlighted that L. Frank Baum, the author of the Oz series, often used the word “queer” in his writing. “Oz is just a celebration of uniqueness,” Grande mused. “And everyone is so beautiful in Oz. I don’t think it’s even a conscious decision—everyone is just so beautifully queer.”
True Love and Deep Bonds
Grande’s thoughts align with co-star Cynthia Erivo, who portrays Elphaba, the misunderstood Wicked Witch of the West. Erivo echoed the sentiment that the relationship between Glinda and Elphaba is a testament to true love. “I think she loves Glinda. I think she loves love,” Erivo shared. “What they build with each other is an unbreakable bond.”
Both stars noted that their characters’ connection in Wicked: Part 1 culminates in a moment of mutual understanding and affection. “They get the chance to say, ‘I see it for you and I love you,’” Grande revealed. “‘I don’t agree, but I love you and I want it for you.’”
A Queer Legacy
Kristin Chenoweth, who originated the role of Glinda on Broadway, weighed in on the theory in a comment on Instagram. “I thought so too way back when…” she remarked, showing her approval of Grande’s interpretation.
Wicked’s legacy as a queer cultural touchstone has only grown over the years, with fans celebrating its themes of acceptance, individuality, and love. As Grande eloquently put it, “Oz is a celebration of uniqueness,” and the characters of Glinda and Elphaba embody that ethos in every way.
Grande’s thoughtful reflections add another layer of depth to the film, which is set to be released in two parts, with the first installment promising to captivate audiences and continue Wicked’s enduring impact on fans worldwide.
