Ariana Grande Halts 'Wicked' Promotions Due to COVID-19

Ariana Grande has confirmed her COVID-19 diagnosis amidst ongoing promotions for Wicked: For Good. The star shared the news on her Instagram, posting a story with a snapshot from her guest appearance on The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon, captioned, “Moments before Covid.” This announcement follows her absence during the New York premiere interviews, stirring concerns about her health status.

Cynthia Erivo, who co-stars in the film, also disclosed that she has been feeling unwell and lost her voice. While both actresses tested positive at different times, their health challenges have coincided before. During the first installment of Wicked, Erivo had tested positive just days before taking on the iconic song, “Defying Gravity,” while Grande's earlier positive test happened shortly before filming the number “Popular.”

As a result of her current diagnosis, Grande has withdrawn from an upcoming taped segment on The Kelly Clarkson Show and will forgo several promotional Q&A events related to the film's launch. Given the recent promotional hustle, her absence has become especially noticeable.

Directed by Jon M. Chu, Wicked: For Good is set to hit theaters on November 21, continuing the journey of Glinda and Elphaba post the first film's events. Grande returns as Glinda, emblematic of goodness in Emerald City, while Erivo’s Elphaba faces increasing scrutiny from Oz's authorities. Branded the Wicked Witch and driven into exile, she is determined to unveil the truth behind The Wizard, played by Jeff Goldblum.

Despite this temporary setback, it is anticipated that promotions for the eagerly awaited film will resume once the cast recovers. With its established legacy and dedicated fanbase, Wicked: For Good is among the most anticipated films of the year.