Ahead of its November 22 release, ‘Wicked‘ actor Ethan Slater sat down to talk about what it’s like to play alongside co-stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, who tear up at will. Best known for bringing heart-wrenching portrayals of Glinda and Elphaba to life, they’ve almost broken into tears in numerous interviews. And Slater has some insight on why.
While the film as well as its actors have garnered heavy acclaim since its release, the backstories about it are making it even more of a big deal. Here’s what Ethan Slater said about the crying sessions that Grande and Erivo had together backstage.
Ethan Slater Shells Out Stories From ‘Wicked’ Sets
In a recent interview with Today, Ethan Slater shelled out some backstage stories about his latest film ‘Wicked‘. Speaking about his co-stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, Slater said, “They’re so funny. They joke about crying during interviews. ‘Well, we cried 100 times again,’ they say. But it’s not annoying—it comes from a really genuine place,” he said.
Slater believes the emotional intensity stems from the deep dive into their characters, who endure a transformative journey in the story. Based on Gregory Maguire’s novel and the beloved Broadway musical, ‘Wicked‘ explores how Glinda and Elphaba’s fates intertwine as they meet at Shiz University.
Related: Ariana Grande Gives A Nod To Glinda And Elphaba’s Queer Relationship In ‘Wicked’
Slater praised Grande and Erivo’s friendship, labeling it as “real and deep,” adding, “They kind of are soul mates.” According to Slater, their close connection stems from the heavy work that intensifies their connections created for them at shoot, translating in an interview to the great closeness exhibited.
Speaking on the emotional process that defines the portrayals of these characters, Slater mentioned that this journey has moved everyone present in the set closer.
Etan Slater Lauds Co-Star Marissa Bode
Ethan Slater also recalled his own emotional moments, especially when interviewed by the press with co-star Marissa Bode, who plays Elphaba’s sister and is the first wheelchair-using actor to take on the role. Slater recalled a rather touching interview in which a fan’s comment showed just how much it mattered to have representation.
“Marissa, you’re an inspiration. I’m a wheelchair user who has always wanted to be an actor, and seeing you do this, I feel like I can pursue my dreams,” he said. Touched by the strength of Bode’s performance and the power of representation, Slater admitted that he had tears during filming.
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“It’s beautiful to see the impact that has and be part of that storyline with her. It’s an honor,” he said.
The cast of ‘Wicked‘ keeps promoting the movie, and there is no doubt that the emotional power behind this movie as well as the close relations during the shoot leave marks on anyone and everyone participating in it.
