'IT WAS HEALING FOR ME TO PLAY THIS ROLE'

Ariana Grande on how her dream part – and co-star Cynthia Erivo – helped her laugh again

- LUCY ALLEN

Ariana Grande starred in one of the most talked-about films of 2024, so it was no surprise that the actress and singer was invited to join her Wicked co-star Cynthia Erivo on stage at the 97th Academy Awards for a bewitching performance of the film's song Defying Gravity.

Having been nominated in the Best Supporting Actress category for her role in the screen adaptation of the 2003 Broadway musical, Ariana approached the glittering performance at Hollywood's Dolby Theatre last weekend as a way to round off an experience that has helped her heal following tough times.

"Laughter is the best thing we have – and friendship," she says of her role as Glinda. "It was always a wonderful escape for me. I'm so grateful that it found its way back into my life in this massive way."

Ariana's pop music career has been peppered with countless celebratory moments, including bagging two Grammy Awards. But she is no stranger to tragedy.

The