Ariana Grande is making headlines for her recently released film, ‘Wicked‘, which is being highly praised. Meanwhile, Grande and Cynthia Erivo spoke to Gay Times about the much-debated dynamic between their characters in the film, Glinda and Elphaba.
Fans have often simply “shipped” the romantic angle to the relationship between the two characters even in its previous adaptations. Recently, Grande has shed some light on the chemistry between the characters. Here’s what she said.
Cynthia Erivo Guesses The Reason People Are Shipping Glinda And Elphaba’s Relationship
Ariana Grande was speaking about the much-discussed chemistry between her and ‘Wicked‘ co-star Cynthia Erivo’s characters when she opened up about how they operate. Joining her was Erivo, speaking to U.K. publication Gay Times about the speculation around their characters’ speculated queer relationship.
“I think Elphie, she follows where the wind follows,” Erivo said, pointing out that the love of Elphaba for Glinda transcends simple classification.
“I think she loves Glinda. I think she loves love. And I don’t think that there’s anything wrong with celebrating how deeply in love they are. It is true love, probably why people are shipping it, you know?” she said.
She then elaborated on the idea that the relationship shared between Glinda and Elphaba is beyond the conventional views of romance. “Just such a safe space for one another, which is what all relationships should be, whether it’s romantic or platonic. Glinda might be a little in the closet. You never know. Give it a little more time. I mean, it is just a true love, and I think that transcends sexuality,” she added.
Ariana Grande Gives A Nod To Glinda’s Queerness
Ariana Grande also echoed similar sentiments, playfully noting that Glinda’s sexuality might indeed lean towards queerness. Grande thought about what if the world of Oz was inherently queer. “Every day in the Emerald City is a Pride parade, right?” Grande joked. She went further, declaring that even some of the animals had a fabulous flair: “Even the chickens… those chickens are gay.”
She also gave a nod to Peter Dinklage’s Dr. Dillamond, referring to the goat professor as a “gay icon,” and comedically pointing out his wardrobe, including the Bode cardigan and custom tea device.
In case you missed it: Dove Cameron Talks About Losing ‘Wicked’ Role To Ariana Grande
In fact, Kristin Chenoweth, who originated the role of Glinda on Broadway, backed up Grande’s thoughts, commenting on an E! News post. “I thought so too way back when,” she said, adding fuel to the fans’ theories.
With a star-studded cast that includes Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, and Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard, ‘Wicked‘ maintains the conversation threads of the previous cast, concerning representation, relationships, and deeper interconnectivities among its characters.
It is in theaters now.
