‘Insufferable, Yes’: Ariana Grande Talks About Wicked’s Glinda and Elphaba’s Relationship with Paul Mescal

by

As an ardent fan of both Wicked and Gladiator, I simply couldn’t contain my excitement when Ariana Grande and Paul Mescal graced Variety’s Actors on Actors. The chemistry between these two powerhouses was palpable, and their shared experiences brought a unique insight into their roles.

The movies “Wicked” and “Gladiator” introduced a new term called “Glicked,” much like “Barbenheimer.” Since they were both premiered on the same day, actors Ariana Grande and Paul Mescal graced the cover of Variety’s Actors on Actors feature together.

As a lifestyle connoisseur, I’d like to share some insights from my recent conversation with both Grande and Mescal. They reflected on the whirlwind experience of the press tour for the blockbuster musical, Wicked.

During the press conferences, it was Paul Mescal who mentioned that he noticed a clear display of affection between Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, describing it as them seeming deeply in love with one another.

However, Grande jumped in, stating, “Insufferable, yes.” 

She further went on to add, “Horrible, it’s bad.” Agreeing with her words, the Normal People actor then burst out with a laugh. 

Instead, he inquired from Grande about how her character’s dislike for Elphaba, portrayed by Cynthia Erivo, is just one aspect of the movie, contrasting sharply with the other part of their shared relationship. “How do you reconcile these opposite dynamics within your characters?

Initially, Elphaba and Glinda held mutual disdain for one another. Yet, throughout this period, Grandé made it clear that he admired Elphaba’s character deeply despite their animosity.

Speaking more about Glinda, the actress shared that she’s long harbored a desire for magical abilities, ones that Elphaba naturally possesses. Interestingly, though, it turns out that Elphaba also harbors a hidden admiration for Glinda too.

Glinda and Elphaba “are both strong in very opposite yet similar ways.” 

She also stated that the characters recognize this part in themselves and each other very soon. 

Interestingly enough, I recently came across lyrics where the singer reveals an intriguing insight. They mention that the aspects their characters despise in one another are actually the very traits they struggle to embrace within themselves.

The film ‘Wicked’ is a musical fantasy production helmed by director Jon M. Chu. This cinematic work features the acting talents of Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, and Peter Dinklage.

In the new film titled “Gladiator II,” we find Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, Joseph Quinn, and Connie Nielsen in the lead roles. The movie is skillfully directed by none other than Ridley Scott.

Read More

2024-12-12 13:07