Ariana Grande sent the internet into a full-blown frenzy after stepping onto the Golden Globes red carpet with a look fans say feels unmistakably like the “real” Ariana. The 32-year-old singer and actress stunned viewers with a dramatic return to her signature dark hair and high ponytail, prompting countless reactions declaring that her Wicked-era transformation is officially over.
Grande’s appearance marked a clear shift away from the blonde look she adopted for her role as Glinda in Wicked. While she had already transitioned back to brunette months ago, the Golden Globes showcased her hair at its darkest and glossiest yet, paired with bold, sculpted brows and a striking Vivienne Westwood gown. Fans flooded social media with praise, interpreting the look as a confident return to form rather than just a fashion change.
What truly caught fans’ attention, however, was her voice. Clips from interviews and red-carpet moments quickly went viral, with viewers pointing out that Grande sounded stronger, louder, and more self-assured than she had throughout the Wicked press cycle. Many speculated that she had intentionally softened her voice for Glinda and may have carried that tone into public appearances longer than expected. To fans, her Golden Globes presence felt like the moment she finally shed the character completely.
Adding fuel to the online chatter was the absence of Wicked co-star Cynthia Erivo. Erivo, who plays Elphaba, did not attend the ceremony and is reportedly busy rehearsing for a stage production in London. Still, her absence didn’t go unnoticed. Fans quickly filled the gap with speculation, memes, and exaggerated theories, joking that Ariana looked more confident and relaxed without her co-star by her side. While much of the commentary veered into over-the-top humor, others pushed back, reminding fans that Erivo’s absence had a straightforward professional explanation.
Grande’s night was further elevated by her nomination for Best Supporting Actress – Motion Picture for Wicked, her first major Golden Globes nomination tied to the film. Combined with her revived signature look and noticeably stronger presence, the moment felt significant to longtime fans who have followed her evolution closely.
Social media was soon flooded with posts celebrating what many called Ariana’s “return to herself.” Fans described her as healthier, more grounded, and more recognizable as the pop star they grew up with before the intense immersion of method acting and months of promotion. Whether or not the speculation surrounding her co-star holds any truth, Grande’s Golden Globes appearance quickly cemented itself as a defining comeback moment.
For many viewers, it wasn’t just about hair or fashion—it was about confidence. With a major award nomination, a powerful presence, and a look that feels unmistakably hers, Ariana Grande’s Golden Globes night has been hailed as the start of a bold new chapter beyond Wicked.
