The moment Arianators have been waiting for is here. Ariana Grande is starring as Glinda in the movie musical event 'Wicked.' If you're coming for Ari but are new to Oz, we've got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know before you watch.
The Story Isn't What You Think
Forget
what you know from 'The Wizard of Oz.' 'Wicked' tells the story from the perspective of the witches, long before Dorothy dropped in. It centers on the unlikely friendship between two young women who meet at school: the bubbly and popular Galinda (Ariana Grande) and the smart, fiery, and misunderstood Elphaba, who was born with green skin. The story follows their complicated bond as they navigate a shared love interest, opposing viewpoints, and the corrupt government of the Wizard of Oz. It’s a tale about friendship, propaganda, and how history gets written by the winners, asking one big question: Are people born wicked, or do they have wickedness thrust upon them?
Meet Glinda (and Elphaba)
Ariana plays Galinda Upland, who you'll come to know as Glinda the Good. When we first meet her, she’s the beautiful, ambitious, and slightly snobby queen bee of Shiz University. She’s initially horrified to be roommates with the green-skinned Elphaba. Their dynamic starts with pure 'unadulterated loathing,' as they sing in the duet 'What Is This Feeling?'. But Glinda eventually takes Elphaba under her wing, sparking an unlikely and transformative friendship. Her character is much more than just a 'good' witch; she’s complex, funny, and deeply human. Her journey, alongside Elphaba’s, is the heart of the entire story.
Get to Know Glinda's Big Songs
As a pop icon, Ariana Grande stepping into a legendary musical role means all eyes are on the songs, and Glinda has some of the best. The most famous is 'Popular,' a delightfully bubbly solo where Glinda gives Elphaba a makeover and a lesson in social climbing. It's a comedic showcase that was perfect for the original Glinda, Kristin Chenoweth, and seems tailor-made for Grande's talents. You'll also hear her in the opening number, 'No One Mourns the Wicked,' and several duets that define her relationship with Elphaba, including 'What Is This Feeling?' and the beautiful, heart-wrenching finale song, 'For Good'.
The Other Faces in Oz
While the story revolves around the two witches, several other key characters shape their destinies. There's Fiyero, a handsome and carefree prince who becomes the main love interest for both Glinda and Elphaba, creating a central love triangle. Madame Morrible is the powerful and manipulative headmistress of Shiz University who first recognizes Elphaba's magical talent. And, of course, there's The Wizard of Oz himself, a seemingly wonderful ruler who may not be what he seems. You'll also meet Nessarose, Elphaba's younger sister, and Boq, a Munchkin with a hopeless crush on Glinda.
Why This Role is a Lifelong Dream for Ariana
For devoted fans, seeing Ariana as Glinda is more than just another role—it’s the fulfillment of a longheld dream. A self proclaimed 'theater kid,' Grande has been a massive 'Wicked' fan since she saw the original Broadway production as a child. She even met the original Glinda, Kristin Chenoweth, backstage when she was young. Over the years, she has publicly stated that Glinda was her dream role, performing songs from the musical at various events, including 'The Wizard and I' for a TV special. This isn't just a job for her; it's a full circle moment a decade in making, and that passion is sure to shine through in her performance.
