Actress Cynthia Erivo has publicly characterized her working relationship with co-star Ariana Grande as a “long-lasting friendship,” comparing it to a sisterly bond. In interviews promoting their upcoming film, Wicked: Part Two, both stars have provided insight into their close partnership, which has been visibly demonstrated throughout the press tour.

Erivo emphasized the reciprocal nature of their dynamic, stating, “We’ve both learnt from each other and given each other some really, really beautiful gifts. We’ve really looked after each other through this.” This was recently evidenced at a premiere event in Singapore, where Erivo instinctively intervened to shield Grande from an approaching fan, an act she attributed to a desire to ensure her colleague’s safety.
Ariana Grande has corroborated the strength of their professional and personal relationship. She explained that their frequent physical contact, which has garnered significant media attention, is a conscious part of their collaborative process to maintain a strong connection. Grande noted that she initiated this open and supportive environment from the outset of their work together, establishing a foundation of trust that has defined their successful partnership on the Wicked film series.