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Tony and Emmy-winning actress Cynthia Erivo has officially addressed long-standing social media rumors regarding the nature of her relationship with her Wicked co-star, Ariana Grande. Speaking in a candid interview, Erivo clarified that while the two share a profound and “soul-level” connection, the speculation that they were ever romantic lovers is unfounded. The rumors intensified during the extensive global press tour for the Wicked film adaptations, where fans frequently noted the intense chemistry and emotional bond between the two leads.
Erivo, who has been open about her identity as a queer woman, explained that she understood why the public was drawn to their dynamic but felt it was necessary to provide clarity. She described their bond as a testament to the sisterhood they built over years of filming, noting that playing Elphaba and Glinda allowed them to fall in love with one another in a “platonic and spiritual way.” She firmly stated that while they are “family for life,” the relationship never crossed into a romantic territory.
The actress noted that modern fandom often struggles to distinguish between deep female intimacy and romantic attraction, suggesting that labeling every close bond as a romance can sometimes diminish the power of a transformative friendship. Erivo described Grande as one of her “dearest friends” and a vital source of support during the rigorous production of the films. Ariana Grande has echoed these sentiments in previous interviews, famously referring to Erivo as her “creative soulmate” and revealing that the pair even got matching tattoos to commemorate their shared experience.
By addressing the speculation directly, Erivo expressed a desire to shift the public focus back to the artistry of their performances and the groundbreaking representation they brought to their iconic roles. As she prepares for the release of her upcoming solo album and new film projects, she maintained that the love depicted on screen in Wicked remains authentic, rooted in the genuine trust and respect the two performers cultivated throughout their journey together.
