Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo have been selling serious best-friend energy ever since they teamed up for the blockbuster Wicked, presenting themselves as inseparable both on and off the screen. From glowing interviews to constant public appearances together, the co-stars have made their bond look unbreakable. But behind the smiles and red carpet moments, rumors are now swirling that their friendship may be more performance than reality.
Fans were especially convinced of their closeness after a widely shared red carpet incident in which Erivo stepped in to protect Grande when a man rushed toward her attempting to take unauthorized photos. Grande appeared visibly shaken, while Erivo forcefully pushed the intruder away, a moment many praised as genuine loyalty. Still, skeptics now argue that even that display may not tell the full story.
Online gossip, fueled largely by viral TikTok videos and celebrity blind items, claims the two stars secretly can’t stand each other. According to the rumors, Grande and Erivo are allegedly bound by studio expectations to maintain a united, affectionate front while promoting Wicked. Once cameras stop rolling, sources claim the warmth quickly disappears, replaced by distance and tension.
One TikTok that has racked up massive views alleges that behind closed doors, the actresses barely tolerate being in the same room. The video suggests their friendship is a carefully curated facade, complete with public hugs, playful interviews, and even matching tattoos that some now believe were done purely for publicity.
The speculation has split fans straight down the middle. Some viewers joke that if the friendship is fake, both women deserve awards for their convincing performances. Others dismiss the claims as classic internet gossip, while a vocal group insists the rumors ring true.
Comments range from biting to defensive. One fan claimed Grande’s personality might clash with Erivo’s no-nonsense demeanor, while another pointed to their interview chemistry as proof that the rumors are nonsense. The chatter has gone so far that some corners of the internet are now spinning theories about a secret romantic relationship—or even a private marriage—between the two.
Grande attempted to address the speculation in a February 2025 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, but her comments only added to the intrigue rather than shutting it down. Meanwhile, her partner Ethan Slater praised the actresses’ connection, calling them “practically soulmates” and describing their bond as deep and authentic.
Erivo added another layer of confusion during an interview with The Lamented, where she labeled her relationship with Grande a “non-demi-curious semi-binary relationship,” explaining that while they are not a couple, they are open to exploring what their unique connection means.
For now, the truth about Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s relationship remains known only to them. As Wicked continues to dominate headlines, fans are left wondering whether they’re witnessing a genuine friendship—or Hollywood’s most convincing illusion.
