Speculation about the relationship between co-stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo has intensified following a blind item alleging that the two actresses are no longer communicating. This claim, which originated from the anonymous gossip site Crazy Days and Nights, contradicts recent public interactions and appearances that suggest their friendship remains intact.
The rumors arose just weeks after the duo attended the premiere of Wicked: For Good in New York City in November 2025. At this event, they walked the red carpet together, reflecting on their extensive collaboration within the film franchise. Notably, when Erivo lost her voice during the premiere, Grande chose to skip interviews in solidarity with her co-star. Universal Pictures confirmed to Variety that “Cynthia is not feeling well and has lost her voice, therefore she and Ariana will not be doing interviews this evening.”
Adding to the speculation, both actresses received Golden Globe nominations for their performances in Wicked: For Good, marking a historic achievement as the first two actors in the same film to be nominated twice for their respective roles.
This is not the first instance where anonymous sources have suggested tension between the actresses. In December 2024, Radar Online reported claims from an unnamed insider that there was behind-the-scenes conflict, describing it as “like Glinda vs Elphaba in real life.” However, the publication advised readers to interpret these claims cautiously, as they could not independently verify the allegations. Earlier rumors included assertions about salary disparities, which Universal Pictures swiftly denied, confirming that both actresses received equal pay.
Allegations also surfaced suggesting that Erivo felt “overlooked and disrespected” when Grande hosted Saturday Night Live without inviting her. No public statements from either actress have confirmed these claims, leaving the validity of such reports in question.
The relationship between Grande and Erivo has been extensively documented during promotional activities for Wicked. A timeline compiled by Harper’s Bazaar highlights their friendship from their casting in 2021 through various premieres, awards ceremonies, and public appearances. When they were first cast, the actresses exchanged flowers and heartfelt notes. Erivo congratulated Grande, stating, “Pink goes with green. Congratulations, Miss A, the part was made for you,” while Grande expressed her excitement with the message, “Honored doesn’t even begin to cover it. I cannot wait to hug you.”
Grande has consistently praised Erivo’s talent, stating on Penn Badgley’s podcast, Podcrushed, that “to work with someone who is just absolutely in their own league as a talent in the world—there’s no one like her.” She emphasized the connection they share, indicating their collaboration felt destined.
Blind items, such as those published by Crazy Days and Nights, are common in entertainment gossip culture. These items typically lack identifiable sources, allowing gossip sites to sidestep potential legal issues while inciting speculation among readers. The nature of blind items means they are often unverified, and credible entertainment journalists typically refrain from reporting on them unless substantiated by reliable sources.
The scrutiny surrounding Grande and Erivo’s relationship reflects broader trends in celebrity culture, where close friendships among co-stars frequently face public examination. Their affectionate displays of friendship, including frequent hand-holding and candid interviews, have prompted prior speculation about the authenticity of their bond. In February 2025, Grande even addressed rumors suggesting the two were “secretly married.”
Neither Grande nor Erivo’s representatives have commented on the latest blind item allegations, and no credible entertainment outlets have substantiated the claims with verified sources. The ongoing narrative surrounding their relationship raises questions about the pressures of public perception in the entertainment industry, especially amid their shared success in Wicked. As their careers continue to evolve, fans and observers alike remain eager to see how their partnership develops in the spotlight.
