The world of entertainment was set ablaze with excitement as pop sensation and actress Ariana Grande received her first Oscar nomination for her role as Glinda in the anticipated film adaptation of Wicked. This announcement places Grande among the contenders for Best Supporting Actress, an accolade that acknowledges her seamless transition from chart-topping music icon to accomplished actress. Her partner and co-star in the project, Ethan Slater, commemorated this momentous occasion with an intimate display of affection by sharing a seldom-seen photo of Grande on his Instagram account.
The image shared by Slater captured Grande in a candid moment, standing gracefully beside a sunlit balcony door, a bouquet of pink balloons in hand, symbolizing the celebratory nature of the occasion. The absence of a caption suggested a picture worth a thousand words, leaving fans to speculate on the shared joy and pride between the couple. This display of support emphasizes the camaraderie and connection forged during their collaborative work on Wicked. The choice of color in the balloons might not have been coincidental, as pink is a recurrent theme in Grande's portrayal of the beloved character Glinda, reflecting her affinity for incorporating her roles into real-life moments.
The nomination, announced as part of the 2025 Oscars on January 23rd, represents a significant milestone in Grande’s career. It acknowledges her intricate and heartfelt depiction of Glinda, a role that demands a unique blend of musical talent and emotional depth. This accomplishment is not only a testament to her talent but also showcases the dedication and craftsmanship poured into her performance. In her heartfelt response to the nomination, Grande shared a childhood photograph on social media, capturing her dressed as Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz. Accompanying this nostalgic image was an emotional caption where she expressed her profound gratitude for such an «unfathomable recognition» from the Academy.
Upon the announcement, Grande was in London, preparing for future commitments when she received the life-changing news. Her initial reactions were centered on sharing this triumph with her nearest and dearest. In her impassioned post, she described reaching out to her mother, longtime friends, and prominent colleagues in the theater world, including Kristin Chenoweth and Cynthia Erivo. Additionally, she mentioned director Jon M. Chu, whose visionary approach inevitably contributed to the film's success. Grande's appreciation extended beyond personal connections, as she acknowledged the entire Wicked team for their unwavering support throughout the journey.
The aftermath of the nomination saw Grande and Slater relishing their success in the vibrant city of London. Spotted at an evening celebration, Grande dazzled in a sophisticated pink Schiaparelli gown, arguably a nod to her character's iconic color palette. This public appearance not only marked a moment of triumph in Grande’s career but also highlighted the couple's intertwined lives both on and off the screen. Their shared excitement stood as testament to the synergistic journey they undertook in bringing the musical classic to life.
The much-anticipated 2025 Oscar ceremony is set for March 2nd, where Grande will join the luminaries of the film industry in celebration of outstanding performances. As the excitement builds, fans and critics alike are eager to witness how Grande’s presence on the Oscars stage will further cement her standing as a multifaceted entertainer. In a world where musicians often struggle to break into film, Grande’s nomination represents not only personal success but also a broader symbol of the boundless possibilities at the intersection of different artistic realms.
