Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo Could Make Oscar History with 'Wicked' Roles

What's Happening?

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo are poised to potentially make Oscar history with their roles in the upcoming film 'Wicked: For Good,' set to release in the U.S. on November 21. Both actresses were previously nominated for their performances in the first 'Wicked' film, with Erivo nominated for Best Actress for her role as Elphaba and Grande for Best Supporting Actress as Galinda/Glinda. If they receive nominations again for the 98th annual Academy Awards, they will join a select group of actors who have been nominated for playing the same character in two different films. This achievement would make them the seventh and eighth actors to do so, and the first to be nominated for the same role in consecutive years since Bing Crosby in the 1940s.

Why It's Important?

The potential nominations for Grande and Erivo could mark a significant milestone in Oscar history, highlighting the enduring appeal and impact of the 'Wicked' franchise. Their nominations would underscore the film's success and the actors' performances, potentially influencing future casting and production decisions in Hollywood. For Grande, a nomination would make her the youngest actor to receive two nods for the same role, breaking the record held by Al Pacino. Erivo's nomination would further solidify her status as a leading actress from England, following in the footsteps of Peter O'Toole. This development could also boost the visibility and recognition of musical adaptations in the film industry.

What's Next?

The nominations for the 98th annual Academy Awards will be announced on January 22, 2026. If Grande and Erivo are nominated, it could lead to increased anticipation and viewership for 'Wicked: For Good,' potentially impacting box office performance and future projects for both actresses. The film's success at the Oscars could also influence the production of similar musical adaptations, encouraging studios to invest in high-quality storytelling and performances. Additionally, the nominations could spark discussions about diversity and representation in Hollywood, given the prominence of both actresses in the industry.

Beyond the Headlines

The potential nominations for Grande and Erivo could have broader implications for the film industry, particularly in terms of gender representation and the recognition of musical performances. Their achievements could inspire other female actors to pursue challenging roles in musical adaptations, contributing to a more diverse and inclusive landscape in Hollywood. Furthermore, the success of 'Wicked' at the Oscars could lead to increased interest in stage-to-screen adaptations, highlighting the cultural significance and commercial viability of such projects.