Recently after the release of the movie Wicked: For Good, some fans have been very concerned about the state of both Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. Throughout many interviews and premieres for the film, there has definitely been a somewhat-strange connection between the two actresses. Many people have developed worries over their current physical health state, as the two recently seem frail. Not only are people worried about their physical state, but their mental state as well.
During the Wicked Press Tour, Ariana Grande became extremely emotional in the majority of the interviews, often crying from questions as Cynthia Erivo would either hold her hand or reassure her. While it makes sense to become connected with someone after being involved in a major production together, fans feel something about the whole situation seems extremely off.
Cynthia Erivo, gets very protective over Ariana Grande. She tends to be pretty cautious of who is near her, even if it’s just a fan trying to say hello. Freshman Emily Baptiste gives her opinion on the situation. “They are at a good level of friendship, but sometimes I think that Ariana has gone a little bit soft with Cynthia” Baptiste said.
This situation is not only concerning, but also upsetting to some. According to Victoria Kirova on The Daily Tar Heel, “Hollywood’s dangerously impossible beauty standards are the true curse haunting the women who have stepped into these roles.” Statements like this sparked multiple theories. One of these theories actually relates to the past. Way back when the Wizard of Oz was being filmed, Judy Garland was treated very harshly behind the scenes, and had a very cruel and strict diet. This led people to believe that this is a very similar if not same situation happening all over again.
Despite all these questions and concerns, there are a few who think that this is just a normal close friendship and people are overlooking it too much. It’s completely reasonable to be worried, but that turns into rumors and lies when things are said on social media. Adding on, people have been obsessing over this friendship so much to the point where it can come off as fans simply not minding their own business. Freshman Ellie Shannon shares her perspective. “I think that it is completely normal to become close with a co-star especially after a huge production like this, so it makes sense to me” Shannon said. Overall, the friendship between Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo can get concerning from time to time, they have also claimed that they are just fine and only have a really strong bond. Critics and fans are still debating claims like this today.
