Summary (tl;dr)

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo are trending due to the imminent theatrical release of "Wicked: For Good" (Part Two) on November 21, 2025, where they reprise their roles as Glinda and Elphaba in the highly anticipated musical fantasy film.

Essential Background

"Wicked" is a beloved Broadway musical that reimagines the Land of Oz, telling the untold story of the witches before Dorothy's arrival. Universal Pictures announced a film adaptation in 2012, which was eventually split into two parts to preserve the narrative integrity. Cynthia Erivo was cast as Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West, and Ariana Grande as Glinda, the Good Witch, in 2021. The first installment, "Wicked" (Part One), was released in November 2024.

The Full Story

Interest in Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo is surging as "Wicked: For Good," the second part of the musical film adaptation, is set to premiere in the United States on November 21, 2025. The movie continues the story of Elphaba (Erivo) and Glinda (Grande) as their paths diverge, with Elphaba becoming the "Wicked Witch of the West" and Glinda embracing her role as "Glinda the Good." Recent press tours have highlighted the strong bond between the co-stars, with Grande and Erivo frequently displaying affection and support for each other, which has garnered significant public attention and social media buzz. Reviews for "Wicked: For Good" are also emerging, with some critics suggesting the second part is emotionally deeper and more captivating than the first, further fueling discussion and anticipation for its release. The film was primarily shot in England, with principal photography for both parts concluding in January 2024.

Why It Matters

The trend reflects widespread excitement for the conclusion of the "Wicked" film saga, a long-awaited adaptation of one of Broadway's most successful musicals. The performances by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, particularly their on-screen chemistry and off-screen camaraderie, are a major draw, contributing to the cultural conversation around the film. The decision to split the story into two parts aimed to provide a more comprehensive narrative, and audience and critical reception for "Wicked: For Good" will be crucial in determining the success of this ambitious adaptation. The film also touches on themes of perception, good versus evil, and societal manipulation, which are resonating with audiences.

Geographic Location

• Sky Studios Elstree, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, England, United Kingdom (primary filming location for "Wicked" parts one and two)
• Warner Bros Studios Leavesden, Hertfordshire, England, United Kingdom (additional filming location for "Wicked" parts one and two)
• Ivinghoe, Buckinghamshire, England, United Kingdom (Munchkinland and Shiz University sets built)
• Cuckmere River, Seaford, East Sussex, England, United Kingdom (filming location for Elphaba and Nessa's arrival at Shiz University)
• Seven Sisters Country Park, Sussex, England, United Kingdom (filming location for "The Wizard and I" performance and Shiz University waterways)
• Belmont Nursery, King's Lynn, Norfolk, England, United Kingdom (filming location for the tulip field scene)
• New York City, New York, United States (premiere of "Wicked: For Good")
• Los Angeles, California, United States (screening of "Wicked: For Good")
• Sydney, New South Wales, Australia (premiere of "Wicked" Part One)
• São Paulo, São Paulo State, Brazil (scheduled release for "Wicked: For Good")
• United States (general theatrical release of "Wicked: For Good")