“Wicked” stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo have lifted the lid on their contracts for the film, putting to rest rumors of a pay disparity between them.
An unequivocal answer. Since its release on November 22, the first part of the film adaptation of the musical Wicked has triumphed at the box office. However, rumors have swirled regarding a pay disparity between Ariana Grande and co-star Cynthia Erivo, with claims that the pop star would have been paid much more. However, during an interview with Variety, alongside director Jon M. Chu, the pair wanted to set the record straight.
“His needs become my needs”
“We went through our contracts together and called each other. [On s’est dit] : “Did you see that? What do you think? Let’s solve the problem together! “, declared the singer. Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba in the film, added that they have “both been there.” “We were very honest. And it’s very rare. People don’t do that,” she told the media.
Ariana Grande went on to say, “We’re very different, but when we do something like this together, her needs become my needs,” which her British counterpart confirmed, “And her needs become mine.”
After the film’s release in November 2024, false reports circulated online suggesting that Ariana Grande was paid millions more than Cynthia Erivo for their respective roles. A spokesperson for Universal Pictures quickly denied: “The rumors of a pay disparity between Cynthia and Ariana are completely false and based on internet rumors. Women received equal pay for their work on ‘Wicked’.
Director Jon M. Chu also praised equal pay for women and men, saying, “This is a modern production. This is what Hollywood should reflect.”
A solid friendship
Inspired by the famous Broadway musical and Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel, “Wicked” traces the story of Elphaba (the Wicked Witch of the West) and Glinda (the Good Witch) before and during the events from “The Wizard of Oz,” going from rival roommates to best friends to adversaries.
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s decision to openly share their contracts and salaries is a testament to their strong friendship, both on and off screen. Their complicity marked their press tour, where they were particularly moved on several occasions.
“I am so grateful and proud of how we were able to be present. A lot of people came up to us and asked how we were holding up. And we just looked at each other and said we were grateful and we were floating,” the “Thank U Next” singer shared to the outlet. His co-star concluded with: “We’re having a great time.”
The second part, entitled “Wicked: For Good”, will be released in theaters on November 26.
