February 16, (THEWILL) — English actress, Cynthia Erivo, has addressed rumours about her close friendship with ‘Wicked’ co-star, Ariana Grande.
After fans speculated that they might be more than friends, Erivo opened up about their relationship in a recent interview with Stylist magazine.
Erivo, 39, described the attention around her friendship with Grande, 32, as a “strange fascination”, explaining that some people were confused by their deep connection.
“At first, I think people didn’t understand how it was possible for two women to be friends — close — and not lovers.
“There was this strange fascination with the two of us, where people either thought we were putting it on for the cameras or that we were lovers”, Erivo said.
Erivo plays Elphaba and Grande plays Glinda in the film adaptations of ‘Wicked’ and ‘Wicked: For Good’.
Their public displays of affection during press tours, including holding hands and hugging, sparked discussion online and led some fans to believe they were a couple.
“I think it’s because there’s such little conversation around platonic female friendship that is deep and real, even though it exists everywhere. We’re not used to seeing it on camera, in front of people”, Erivo added.
Erivo also said that close emotional connections between women can make some people uncomfortable because society rarely highlights these kinds of friendships.
Grande has also spoken about their connection on the Podcrushed podcast, saying of Erivo, “I learned so much as a person from her. And she loves hard … and honestly and right … it was just the most symbiotic, beautiful [experience working with her].”
Despite ongoing rumours, both stars remain focused on their work, careers, and the positive bond they share.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
