Ariana Grande recently addressed the backlash she’s been receiving over her portrayal of Glinda in the upcoming ‘Wicked’ films. The pop star, who has been a household name with chart-topping hits, is taking on a new challenge in this iconic role, and while her fans have been supportive, some critics have taken issue with her voice in the film. In a conversation reported by ‘Variety’, Grande responded to the criticism, pointing out a double standard in how male and female actors are treated when it comes to vocal performances.
Grande has been filming ‘Wicked’ for nearly two years and has fully immersed herself in the role of Glinda. The singer explained that adjusting her voice for the character was an intentional choice. “There is a part of the world that isn’t familiar with what it takes to transform your voice,” Grande said. Whether it’s singing, adopting a different dialect, or creating a character’s unique voice, it’s all part of the process. However, she noticed a significant difference in how these efforts are perceived based on gender.
“When it’s a male actor that does it, it’s acclaimed,” Grande remarked. “There are definitely jokes that are made as well, but it’s always after being led with praise: ‘Oh, wow, he was so lost in the role.’” She added that this is just another example of how women in the entertainment industry are treated differently. “Tale as old as time being a woman in this industry. You are treated differently, and you are under a microscope in a way that some people aren’t,” she explained.
Grande also previously responded to critics on TikTok, defending her approach to the role. In a post, she wrote, “I intentionally change my vocal placement (high/low) often depending on how much singing I’m doing. I’ve always done this BYE.” The singer is proud of the work she’s put into Glinda, emphasizing that she gave 100% to the role, including physically transforming to embody the character.
“I am really proud of my hard work,” Grande said. She decided to address the criticism because she wanted to protect her efforts, adding that the role required a significant level of commitment and transformation. Grande’s fans have praised her dedication, and many are excited to see her interpretation of Glinda on the big screen.
Meanwhile, ‘Wicked: Part Two’, the second installment of the two-part film adaptation, has had its release date moved up. Initially set to be released on November 26, 2025, the film will now debut on November 21, 2025. Directed by Jon M. Chu and written by Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox, the ‘Wicked’ films are based on the hit stage musical by Stephen Schwartz and Holzman, which itself was adapted from Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel. The story is a reimagining of L. Frank Baum’s classic ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’.
Alongside Ariana Grande, the films feature an impressive cast, including Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, and more in supporting roles. Fans are eagerly awaiting the release of both parts of the ‘Wicked’ adaptation.