Cynthia Erivo hits back at online critics over her friendship with Wicked co-star Ariana Grande

Actor Cynthia Erivo has hit back at people who mocked and questioned her close friendship with Wicked co-star Ariana Grande during their press tours. In a recent interview cited by People, Cynthia said she found it strange that many viewers became armchair psychologists and felt annoyed by two women sharing a real bond. She pointed out that social media users often questioned why they were connected and criticized them for simply showing normal human emotions like crying or laughing in public. The actor described the online reaction as a double-edged sword, noting that critics likely would have attacked them anyway even if they had stayed emotionless during public events.

Singapore Incident

One specific incident drew heavy online scrutiny on November 13, 2025, during the premiere of Wicked For Good in Singapore. Cynthia stepped in to shield Ariana after a fan rushed toward the singer and put an arm around her, prompting social media users to dub Cynthia 'Ariana's bodyguard'. Responding to the chatter, Cynthia said people assumed they could speak to her in a certain way just because of her physical appearance, adding that she merely did a human thing any good friend would do.

Background

Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande played Elphaba and Glinda in the two-part musical adaptation of the Tony-winning Broadway production, which released films in 2024 and 2025 about two roommates at Shiz University. The co-stars maintained their close bond after filming wrapped, even getting matching 'For Good' tattoos inked on their palms in November 2025.

Context

Public figures often face intense social media scrutiny and unfair criticism regarding their personal lives and genuine relationships. Celebrity friendships formed on movie sets are frequently put under a microscope by fans and commentators across digital platforms.