Cynthia Erivo has shut down speculation that her close bond with Wicked co-star Ariana Grande is romantic. The actress called out the 'strange fascination' with their friendship in a recent interview. She emphasized it's all platonic.
Oh honey, the internet loves to ship anything that moves, especially when it comes to these two queens from Oz. Cynthia Erivo, 39, and Ariana Grande, 32, slayed as Elphaba and Glinda in John M. Chu's blockbuster Wicked adaptation, building a bond that's got fans in a frenzy. But Cynthia is here to spill: it's just deep friendship, nothing more. 👯♀️
In an interview with The Stylist, Cynthia got real about the rumors. "At first, I think people didn’t understand how it was possible for two women to be friends—close—and not lovers," she said. She's never really addressed it before, but added, "I’ve never really spoken about this, but there was this strange fascination with the two of us, where people either thought we were putting it on for the cameras or that we were lovers." Oof, the shade on society's hang-ups! She pointed out the lack of talk around 'platonic female friendship that is deep and real,' noting, "We’re not used to seeing it on camera, in front of people. A relationship where people are connected sometimes just makes people uncomfortable; we aren’t taught that those relationships are good for us."
This chatter exploded during the Wicked press tour, where every hug and emotional interview got dissected online. Some social media users swore it looked romantic. But reality check: Ariana's been publicly linked to co-star Ethan Slater since production kicked off. Cynthia, meanwhile, keeps things low-key but has been in a long-term relationship with actress and producer Lena Waithe.
Director John M. Chu spilled on the Variety Awards Circuit Podcast about their casting magic. "When Cynthia walks in and sings, you feel it in your bones. And when Ari sat there and became Glinda, there was no question," he shared. No pressure from the studio, just pure talent vibes.
So, the tea? Just two icons supporting each other in a messy world that can't handle female friendship without shipping it. Is Hollywood finally catching up, or will the rumors keep flying? 🔥
