Ariana Grande's Journey Beyond 'Wicked': What's Next for the Pop Icon? (2026)

Ariana Grande's journey with 'Wicked' has come full circle, and now she's ready to explore new horizons. After a lifelong pursuit of the role, earning her first Oscar nomination, and a successful run in the film adaptation, Grande is reflecting on her transformation and the lessons she's learned. But what's next for the pop icon? Let's dive into the intriguing possibilities and the challenges that lie ahead.

The Bubble of 'Wicked'

Ariana Grande's experience with 'Wicked' was akin to stepping into a technicolor dream world, but it also required her to create a bubble of her own. She had to shut out the noise and doubts from the outside world, especially those who questioned her suitability for the role. This process was crucial in allowing her to focus on the work and fully embody Glinda.

The Outside-In Approach

Grande, a self-proclaimed 'Stella Adler girlie', embraced the acting philosophy that emphasizes an outside-in approach. This means imagining every detail of her character's circumstances to make the performance feel truthful. By creating a bubble of her own, she could explore Glinda's emotional arc and backstory, even going beyond what Baum had imagined.

The Human Inside the Bubble

Despite the success of 'Wicked', Grande remains grounded. She acknowledges the importance of balancing intense focus with intense feelings. Her career has been built on this foundation, and she continues to embrace the nerves and curiosity that drive her to challenge herself and explore new projects.

The Next Steps

Now, Grande is ready to move on from 'Wicked' and explore new opportunities. She's juggling movies and music, choosing projects that test her range. From 'Focker In-Law' to the Eternal Sunshine Tour and a West End revival of 'Sunday in the Park With George', she's embracing a diverse range of roles and experiences.

The Horror of It All

One surprising revelation is that Grande loves horror. She's a fan of 'The Ring' and 'Psycho', and even gushed about M. Night Shyamalan's 'Signs'. Who knows? Maybe she'll lead a horror movie one day. After all, manifestation works, and Grande has proven that she can make her dreams come true.

The Power of 'Good'

As Grande reflects on her 'Wicked' era, she emphasizes the importance of 'good' in her life. She celebrates the successes and says thank you when they happen, but she also remains grounded in her roots. She's grateful for the opportunity to explore new projects and continue to grow as an artist.

Ariana Grande's Journey Beyond 'Wicked': What's Next for the Pop Icon? (2026)
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