Ashes Pre-Series Banter Intensifies as Broad Labels Australia the Worst Since 2010
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- By Summer Wright
- 15 May 2026
Whether you're a fan or not, the buzz surrounding the Wicked sequel is inescapable. Following a hectic press tour for the first film, attention is now on the lead actors and the latest chapter in the popular franchise.
Last year's promotional tour was famous for the deep bond between the two stars. Tearful interviews and expressions of affection captured significant attention. Even with teasing about being “insufferable,” their relationship remains strong. At the New York premiere, Erivo opted to skip interviews to protect her voice, while Grande reportedly did the same in solidarity. When asked about their feelings ahead of the film's finale, they expressed “deep thankfulness.”
It was shared that one star lost her voice and could not speaking with press at the ‘Wicked: For Good’ premiere. Ariana Grande also skipped interviews to stand with her.
Observers of accomplished women in their thirties frequently fussing over each other has fueled theories. They share multiple identical tattoos related to the franchise, including “For good” inside their hands. In a recent show, Grande commented that their goal is to “take care of each other” and that she “channels energy” through physical touch.
At the Singapore premiere, an individual jumped over security barriers and rushed toward Ariana Grande. Her co-star immediately stepped in to protect her before guards apprehended the assailant. Named as an admitted “prankster,” he afterwards posted footage of the event online, which was widely condemned. He faced penalties and received to jail.
The star's boyfriend, co-star, also appears in the sequel. The couple met during filming of the original, amid prior relationships. Despite online sharing, the pair avoided joint press and appeared apart in group photos, fueling breakup speculation. But, insiders close to the pair have denied these rumors, stating that things are “fine” between them.
Jeff Goldblum, who plays The Wizard of Oz, has revealed that being part of the project prompted him to give up meat. Both stars are longtime plant-based, and another cast member adheres to a similar diet. It motivated animal rights groups to reach out to other actors, such as Jonathan Bailey, hoping to persuade them to switch to a vegan lifestyle. To date, he has not committed but has praised the movie's themes of tolerance.
Advance ticket sales for the sequel are apparently exceeding those of the first film. In the UK cinemas, passes are selling at over double the pace. It has additionally led to countless promotional partnerships, from drinks to television specials. In London also showcased a publicity yellow brick installation with song lyrics. Given the success, there is speculation about a possible third film.
Ariana Grande has indicated that her forthcoming tour—the initial in seven years—might be her last for a “foreseeable future.” She appears to be shifting to film roles, including an anticipated movie with renowned actors. Meanwhile, she has cultivated new interests like observing birds and expressing interest in studying insects. Listeners hoping for another album, it might be a lengthy wait.
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