The chemistry between Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande during the promotion of 'Wicked: For Good' in late 2025 not only boosted the film's success, but sparked intense debate The constant also displays affection, gestures of complicity, and evident emotional bond between the actresses became the subject of scrutiny and speculation that went viral, leading many to question the true nature of their relationship. Months after the report, Cynthia Erivo addressed the issue, describing it as a “strange fascination” sparked by their friendship. In a candid interview with the British magazine Stylist, the British actress offered her reflections on the phenomenon, attributing the interest to a broader cultural deficiency: the lack of representation of deep, platonic female friendships in the media. “I think people didn't understand how it was possible for two women to be friends—intimate friends—and not lovers,” stated Erivo, who plays Elphaba. The actress maintained that the public seemed convinced their interactions were an act for the cameras or proof of a secret romance. For Erivo, this reaction reveals a societal inability to conceive of emotional connection between women outside of the romantic sphere.

On female friendship

“I think it's because there's so little conversation about platonic female friendship, which is close and real, even though it's everywhere,” she emphasized, adding that “we're not used to seeing it on camera, in front of people.”

The artist defended the right to emotional intimacy and pointed out that “a relationship where people are connected sometimes makes people uncomfortable,” since society doesn't teach us to value that these platonic bonds can be equally beneficial and profound.

Throughout the press tour, Ariana Grande also offered her perspective on viral affectionate gestures, such as the one in which she appears holding her co-star's finger.

On Amy Poehler's 'Good Hang' podcast, Grande explained that she channels a lot of energy through physical contact,a need that intensified during filming and promotion. Far from being a strategy, the singer described these acts as spontaneous forms of support and emotional connection to cope together with the intensity of the moment.

“I thought my friend might need something in the face of the intensity of the questions,” she explained regarding the viral finger gesture, confessing that she wasn't even aware of what she was doing at that moment.

The strength of this bond transcended interviews and became evident in real-life situations. During the film's premiere in Singapore, Erivo didn't hesitate to intervene when an influencer abruptly approached Grande and helped her through that difficult moment.