In pondering the possible LGBTQIA+ identity of their characters from "Wicked," both Ariana Grande and Kristin Chenoweth have shared their thoughts.
The discussion was sparked by Grande, who portrays Glinda in the movie and raises questions about her character's sexual orientation during a conversation with Cynthia Erivo, her co-star taking on the role of Elphaba.
They dive into the topic of fans imagining their characters as a romantic pair.
Grande told the Gay Times, "You know, maybe Glinda might be a little in the closet!"
"If there were a time, you know, you never know, give it a little more time!"
Following the widespread attention garnered by Grande's remarks regarding Glinda, Chenoweth, the original actress who portrayed the character in the 2003 Broadway production, expressed her perspective.
The Tony winner commented on Instagram, "I thought so too way back when...."
During their conversation with Gay Times, Grande and Erivo both described the Land of Oz as "a queer place."
"Oz is just a celebration of uniqueness, and everyone is so beautiful in Oz, and I don't even think it is a conscious discussion or decision. Everyone is just so beautifully queer."
For quite some time, there has been speculation among fans that the musical "Wicked" has numerous LGBTQIA+ themes. These include the symbolism embedded in the iconic song "Defying Gravity," the story of overcoming challenges due to her uniqueness, and the overarching lesson of defying conventional societal norms.
Grande and Erivo spoke of the profound bond shared by Glinda and Elphaba, acknowledging the strong connection that prompts fans to speculate about a romantic relationship between the two characters.
"It's just a true love, and I think that transcends sexuality," the "Thank U Next" singer stated. "It's kind of a deep safety within each other, [so] that's why they probably ship it."
Erivo, who publicly shared her bisexuality in 2022, expressed that Elphaba "goes wherever the wind goes."
"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," the Brit revealed.
"It's a relationship. It is true love, which is probably why people are shipping it, because what they build with each other is an unbreakable bond and love."
Grande also said their characters discovered "truth and trust" in a "safe space for one another, which is what all relationships should besafe space for one another, which is what all relationships should be
