Ariana Grande is set to perform alongside Cynthia Erivo at the Oscars. The announcement has generated considerable excitement among fans of both performers and the film industry alike.
The 31-year-old actress starred alongside Cynthia, 38, in the musical fantasy film ‘Wicked’ in 2024, and the duo are poised to reunite at the Oscars on March 2. ‘Wicked’ has become one of the most talked-about musical adaptations in recent years, bringing the beloved Broadway show to the big screen.
“A spellbinding moment awaits. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande take the #Oscars stage for a performance you won’t forget,” the Academy Awards said in a post on Instagram. “Watch the Oscars LIVE Sunday, March 2, at 7e/4p on ABC and Hulu, with Conan O’Brien hosting. Expect the unexpected—only at the Oscars. (sic)” The post quickly became one of the most engaged announcements from the Academy this season.
Ariana played Glinda in ‘Wicked’, and she earned a nomination for the Best Supporting Actress Oscar. This marks Grande’s first Academy Award nomination, adding to her impressive list of achievements throughout her music and acting career.
Cynthia, on the other hand, played Elphaba in the musical fantasy film, earning a Best Actress nomination for her performance. Erivo is known for her powerful vocals and commanding stage presence, having previously won acclaim for her work in “The Color Purple” on Broadway.
Meanwhile, Cynthia previously revealed that she developed an immediate “connection” with her ‘Wicked’ co-star. Their chemistry on screen has been praised by critics as one of the film’s strongest elements, with many reviewers highlighting their complementary performances.
“When we found out we were doing this, I asked her to come around and just chill. We organised it together and she came to my house. We sat on my floor and chatted for hours and hours and hours,” the actress told ‘Extra’. “I think in that moment, we both realised that we had something, like an immediate sort of connection.” The pair spent extensive time in rehearsals perfecting their performances and building their on-screen relationship.
Ariana also relished the experience of working with Cynthia on the movie. Their behind-the-scenes friendship has been well-documented throughout the film’s production and promotional tour.
“I think the thing that’s been most special about it is that, from the moment we met, our first talk, we had a really honest agreement and commitment to take care of each other and to always be honest with each other and make space for the feelings that come up along the way and just take care of each other as friends,” she said. “That just grew and grew and grew deeper and deeper as the process went on and still is. It’s just like really, really beautiful and legit. I’m so grateful.” The duo has formed a bond that extends beyond their professional collaboration.
The Academy Awards ceremony is expected to be one of the most-watched entertainment events of the year. Industry insiders suggest that Erivo and Grande will likely perform music from ‘Wicked,’ though official confirmation of their song selection is still forthcoming.
This performance adds to a growing list of high-profile appearances for both stars. Grande continues to balance her successful music career with acting roles, while Erivo has established herself as a versatile performer across stage and screen.
The Oscars will mark Conan O’Brien’s first time hosting the prestigious ceremony. The comedian has joined the long list of notable hosts who have taken on the challenging role of entertaining Hollywood’s elite and viewers around the world.
Fashion enthusiasts are already speculating about what the two stars might wear for their performance, with both women known for their distinctive and bold style choices on red carpets and performances throughout their careers.
The collaboration between Erivo and Grande at the Oscars represents a celebration of their work in ‘Wicked’ and showcases the Academy’s recognition of musical film performances, continuing the tradition of highlighting memorable musical moments during the ceremony.
