There is reportedly tensions between Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo despite the public perception of a sweet relationship.
According to industry sources, the alleged dynamic between the co-stars on the set of their latest project "Wicked" was reportedly so intense that intervention was required to prevent any potential conflicts from brewing.
An insider told Radar Online, "It's like Glinda vs. Elphaba in real life."
"The chemistry onscreen might be magical, but behind the scenes it's a whole other story."
Fans were previously taken aback by the news of the feud between the two stars, especially considering the strong bond they had openly discussed in interviews.
Erivo once referred to the "Thank U, Next" singer as a sister figure after taking on a role, while Grande mentioned how their close relationship had transformed her into a new person.
The British-born actress-singer also disclosed that their relationship had its ups and downs, mentioning the importance of engaging in challenging yet meaningful conversations to strengthen their relationship.
Now, the insider claims that the 37-year-old has grew weary of accommodating the diva-like requests of her 31-year-old "Wicked" co-star and felt overlooked in terms of receiving equal star treatment.
The insider told the outlet, "Cynthia is actually the lead in Wicked, but Ariana is the global superstar."
"Ariana's used to being the center of attention, and working as part of a team isn't her style. She doesn't do well promoting other people – even if it helps her."
In her quest to allegedly ascend to new heights in the American entertainment scene, Erivo looked to Grande for a boost, but the former Nickelodeon star reportedly prefers to bask in the spotlight alone.
Signs of a strained relationship emerged when Grande hosted "Saturday Night Live" before the premiere of "Wicked" and neglected to extend an invitation to Erivo for the show or the afterparty.
"Cynthia felt overlooked and disrespected," the insider went on.
Adding fuel to the fire, there are whispers that Erivo had hoped to work with Grande after the movie's release, perhaps even doing a tour together.
The source stated, "That will never happen. Ariana doesn't share her fans or her success."
"There were also embarrassing reports that Grande's salary was more than TEN TIMES what Cynthia earned, but they were quickly denied by Universal Pictures reps who said they got equal pay."
"Ariana's reputation isn't the best. So these 'Wicked' reports aren't tough to believe."
However, it's worth noting that the alleged salary discrepancy had been debunked with Universal saying they were paid equally.
Classicalite could not independently verify the tension claims between Erivo and Grande, so it's best to take this report with a grain of salt.
