January 24, 2025: Ariana Grande’s Oscar nomination for her portrayal of Glinda in Wicked is such a monumental achievement in her career! It’s clear that this role has meant so much to her, especially given how she’s dreamed of playing Glinda for over two decades. Her emotional reaction and heartfelt thank you to her fans, the Academy, and the Wicked team really show how deeply she values this recognition.
Taking to her official Instagram handle, Ariana posted an emotional note thanking his fans, the film’s team and The Academy for the recognition.
Sharing a carousel of pictures and videos from her childhood to growing up and being dressed as Glinda for ‘Wicked’, Ariana wrote, “picking my head up in between sobs to say thank you so much to @theacademy for this unfathomable recognition. 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.”
In her caption, she also added, “Thank you again, from the bottom of my heart, for this acknowledgement @theacademy. thank you @jonmchu for taking this chance on me and for being the most unbelievably brilliant leader, human being, and most fierce friend. i am so deeply proud of my beautiful Wicked family. i am so proud of my Elphie, my sister, my dear @cynthiaerivo. your brilliance is never ending and you deserve every flower (tulip) in every garden. i love you unconditionally, always. i don’t quite have all my words yet, i’m still trying to breathe. but thank you. oh my goodness, thank you. Universal, Marc, my family, my heart. lemons and melons and pears, oh my.”
Fellow celebrities and fans were quick to drop congratulatory messages for the ‘Focus’ star.
It’s amazing how Wicked is resonating with both audiences and critics, and having such an impact on the award season. The movie’s 10 Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Cynthia Erivo, really speak to the incredible work done by the entire cast and crew.
Ariana’s love for her Wicked family, including Cynthia Erivo and director Jon M. Chu, is so genuine, and her comments about Chu not being nominated for Best Director are especially touching. It’s clear she has a lot of respect and admiration for him. The way she describes the premiere experience in Australia, with the audience’s emotional reaction, is a beautiful reminder of how powerful storytelling can be.
This has been such a huge moment for Ariana, and I’m sure it will continue to be a highlight in her career. Do you think her Oscar nomination could open more doors for her in acting, or do you see her continuing to focus on music?