Ariana Grande has opened up about her latest role as Glinda the Good Witch in the new movie adaptation of Wicked.
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Yes, the magical world of Oz has returned to the spotlight with the release of the Wicked: Part One movie.
The film adaptation of the iconic Broadway musical - which is based on Gregory Maguire's 1995 novel which was based on L. Frank Baum's 1900 story - tells the origin story of Elphaba, known to many as the Wicked Witch of the West, and her complex relationship with Glinda.
However, while the release of the movie has sparked many fan interpretations on Reddit threads, it has also sparked discussions about the deeper layers of the characters' connection among the cast, particularly in terms of sexuality.
In a revealing interview with the Gay Times, stars Ariana Grande - who portrays Glinda - and Cynthia Erivo - who takes on the role of Elphaba - shared their insights into their characters' dynamics.
Grande said she believed everybody in Oz is "beautifully queer", before hinting at a more nuanced understanding of Glinda's character, suggesting: "Glinda might be a little in the closet. You never know!"
Erivo supported this interpretation, emphasizing the profound bond between the two characters: "I think she loves Glinda. I think she loves love. And I don't think there's anything wrong with celebrating the deep connection that both of them have." She described their relationship as having an "unbreakable bond" and a foundation of "trust and truth".
In fact, Kristin Chenoweth - who originally played Glinda on Broadway in 2003 - chimed in on social media, supporting Grande's interpretation. "I thought so too way back when…," she commented on Instagram.
And over on the full interview on YouTube, fans of the franchise were quick to share their thoughts, with one person writing: "Glinda in the Wicked book clearly had feelings for Elphaba."
"It just feels like they're each other's person, regardless of romantic relationship," another added.
In fact, Glinda and Elphaba do kiss in Gregory Maguire's book Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West - something that many fans were quick to point out as it is a pivotal moment in their relationship.
The discussion about the characters' sexualities is particularly poignant considering the broader themes of Wicked, which delve into issues of prejudice, acceptance, and the gray areas between good and evil.
Directed by Jon M. Chu, Wicked boasts a star-studded cast including Ethan Slater, Jeff Goldblum, Jonathan Bailey, Bowen Yang, Peter Dinklage, and Michelle Yeoh. The film is set to release in two parts, with the first installment already captivating audiences in theaters.
In fact, BBC News reports that Wicked's opening box office is set to become the most successful for any broadway adaption in cinema history, with a projected $114 million
Meanwhile, if you want to learn why Elphaba is actually called Elphaba, you can find out HERE.
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