Universal Breaks Silence on Shocking Pay Disparity Between Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo

"Universal Addresses Pay Gap Between Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo"

Universal Pictures denied claims that Ariana Grande was paid significantly more than co-star Cynthia Erivo, stating both received equal pay for their roles.

Sophia Clarke27 November 2024Last Update : 2 weeks ago

Universal addresses rumors about Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s huge Wicked pay disparity

www.independent.co.uk

Universal Pictures recently addressed rumors about Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s pay disparity in the highly anticipated film, “Wicked.” Reports suggested that Grande earned significantly more than Erivo, but the studio has labeled these claims as “completely false.” With the film’s release on November 22, 2024, fans are eager to learn more about the truth behind these allegations.

6 Key Takeaways

Universal denies pay disparity between Grande and Erivo.
"Wicked" grosses $112 million domestically.
Critics praise performances but criticize lighting.
Jon M. Chu defends movie's color grading.
Ariana Grande shares screening experience with grandmother.
"Wicked" Part Two to release November 2025.

Fast Answer: Universal Pictures has denied rumors that Ariana Grande was paid millions more than co-star Cynthia Erivo for their roles in “Wicked.” The studio confirmed both actresses received equal pay, dispelling online speculation.

Universal Pictures Confirms Equal Pay for Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo

Is there really a pay gap between the stars of “Wicked”? Universal Pictures insists there isn’t. Following the film’s successful debut, speculation arose about Grande’s reported $15 million salary compared to Erivo’s $1 million. However, Universal clarified that both actresses received equal compensation for their performances.

Info! This clarification is significant for audiences in the U.S. who are concerned about fairness in Hollywood. Equal pay for equal work remains a hot topic in the entertainment industry.

Box Office Success and Critical Reception of “Wicked”

“Wicked” has quickly become a box office hit, earning $112 million domestically in its opening weekend. This impressive figure makes it the highest-grossing Broadway adaptation to date, surpassing the previous record held by “Into the Woods.” Critics have praised the film, with a 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, although some have noted issues with its visual style.

Director Jon M. Chu Defends Film’s Visual Choices

Director Jon M. Chu has responded to critiques regarding the film’s color grading, which some viewers found overly bright. He explained that the intention was to create an immersive experience in the magical land of Oz. Chu emphasized the importance of making the world feel real to enhance the emotional stakes between the characters.

Chu aims for an immersive experience in Oz.
Visual choices sparked mixed reactions among audiences.
Critics have praised the film’s performances.
Grande and Erivo’s chemistry is a highlight.

Ariana Grande’s Personal Connection to “Wicked”

Ariana Grande recently shared a touching moment with her 99-year-old grandmother at a screening of “Wicked” in Boca Raton, Florida. This personal connection adds to the film’s emotional depth, as Grande’s grandmother grew up watching the original “Wizard of Oz.” Their shared experience underscores the film’s nostalgic appeal for many viewers.

As “Wicked” continues to enchant audiences, the conversation around pay equity and artistic choices remains relevant. With Part Two set to premiere on November 21, 2025, fans are eagerly awaiting more magical moments from this beloved story.