Ariana Grande has officially received an Oscar nomination for her performance as Glinda in the film adaptation of Wicked. The recognition comes as a significant moment in her career, marking her transition from pop superstar to acclaimed actress.
In her role as Glinda, Grande brings a fresh interpretation to a character known from The Wizard of Oz. Critics have praised her comedic timing, depth, and ability to steal scenes alongside Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba. Erivo also earned an Oscar nomination for her performance.
Grande took to social media after the announcement, expressing her gratitude:
“I cannot stop crying, to no one’s surprise. I’m humbled and deeply honored to be in such brilliant company and sharing this with tiny Ari who sat and studied Judy Garland singing ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ just before the big, beautiful bubble entered. I’m so proud of you, tiny.”
The nomination has drawn attention to Grande’s journey as an actress, which began with her early roles as Cat Valentine on Nickelodeon’s Victorious and Sam & Cat. While these roles showcased her comedic talent, some doubted whether she could transition to feature films, particularly in a project as high-profile as Wicked.
Grande’s recent work, however, has showcased her versatility. Her guest appearance on Saturday Night Live in October included skits that highlighted her comedic skills, such as a charades-obsessed mother and an impression of Jennifer Coolidge. In addition to her acting, Grande’s music has often included playful and cheeky elements, such as the hit “34+35” and the Thank U, Next music video, which parodied popular rom-coms.
Grande’s performance in Wicked has been lauded for both its comedic and heartfelt moments, such as her rendition of Glinda’s makeover scene with Elphaba. The adaptation has been widely praised, with reviews emphasizing Grande’s ability to balance humor with sincerity. Despite skepticism surrounding her casting, Grande’s nomination is viewed as a validation of her acting abilities.
Grande’s nomination is particularly notable as the Academy has historically overlooked comedic performances, especially by women. Yet, her work in Wicked stood out, earning her a place among the year’s top acting talents.
The 2024 Oscars will take place later this year, where Grande will compete for Best Supporting Actress. Fans and industry professionals alike eagerly anticipate the results.