‘Strange fascination’: Cynthia Erivo speaks out on Ariana Grande dating rumours

For over a year, speculation has swirled around the close relationship between actresses Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, fueled by their on-screen chemistry in the Wicked films and extensive press appearances. Now, Cynthia Erivo has directly addressed the rumors of a romantic connection, firmly stating that their bond is a deep and meaningful friendship, not a love affair.

Addressing the Rumors

Erivo discussed the “strange fascination” with her and Grande’s relationship in a recent interview with Stylist. She noted that many people seemed unable to conceive of a close connection between two women that wasn’t romantic. “At first, I think people didn’t understand how it was possible for two women to be friends – close – and not lovers,” Erivo explained.

Did You Know? An overexcited fan, identified as Johnson Wen, was arrested for approaching Ariana Grande during the Singapore premiere of ‘Wicked: For Good’.

Erivo believes the persistence of the rumors stems from a lack of representation of strong, platonic female friendships. “There’s such little conversation around platonic female friendship that is deep and real, even though it exists everywhere,” she said. She added that society is “not used to seeing it on camera, in front of people.”

A Protective Bond

The speculation reached a peak during the Wicked: For Good premiere in Singapore, where Erivo intervened when a fan breached security and approached Grande. Erivo explained on Today that her immediate reaction was to ensure Grande’s safety, stating, “I just wanted to make sure my friend was safe… I wanted to make sure that she was OK. That was my first instinct.”

Expert Insight: The intense public interest in Erivo and Grande’s relationship highlights a societal tendency to interpret close female bonds through a romantic lens, often overlooking the validity and depth of platonic connections.

Erivo described their current relationship as a sisterhood, emphasizing the mutual support and growth they’ve experienced. “We’re kind of like sisters at this moment in time,” she shared. “We’ve both learned from each other and given each other some really, really beautiful gifts. We’ve really looked after each other through this.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted Cynthia Erivo to address the rumors?

Erivo addressed the rumors in an interview with Stylist, stating she had never previously spoken about the fascination with her and Ariana Grande’s relationship.

What did Cynthia Erivo say about her relationship with Ariana Grande?

Erivo stated that she and Ariana Grande are close friends, describing their bond as a “sisterhood” and emphasizing the mutual support they provide each other.

What happened at the ‘Wicked: For Good’ premiere in Singapore?

A fan, later identified as Johnson Wen, breached security and approached Ariana Grande. Cynthia Erivo intervened to protect her friend, prioritizing Grande’s safety.

Does the public’s tendency to speculate about the romantic nature of close female friendships reflect a broader societal issue?