‘Wicked’ Stars Cynthia Erivo & Ariana Grande Set for Magical First Live TV Performance at the Oscars!
A Historic On-Stage Reunion
Hold onto your broomsticks, folks! The 97th Academy Awards are poised to deliver a spellbinding evening as Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, the dynamic duo from the blockbuster film Wicked, prepare to perform live together for the first time since the movie’s release. This highly anticipated reunion is set to take place on March 2, 2025, promising a magical experience that fans have been eagerly awaiting.
Wicked: A Box Office Triumph
Released in November 2024, Wicked soared to unprecedented heights, grossing over $728 million worldwide against a production budget of $150 million. This enchanting adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical not only captivated audiences but also garnered critical acclaim, securing ten Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Actress for Erivo, and Best Supporting Actress for Grande. The film’s success marks a significant moment for the Oscars, as they celebrate a film that has both enchanted audiences and dominated the box office.
Revitalizing Awards Show Appeal
In recent years, major awards shows have faced declining viewership, with audiences craving more engaging and relatable content. The Oscars’ decision to spotlight a commercially successful and culturally impactful film like Wicked reflects a strategic move to bridge the gap between critical acclaim and mainstream popularity. This approach mirrors last year’s memorable moment when Ryan Reynolds took the stage with his show-stopping “Just Ken” performance, which resonated with a broad audience and injected fresh energy into the ceremony.
A Night of Diverse Musical Talent
The 2025 Oscars are not only about celebrating cinematic achievements but also about delivering unforgettable musical performances. In addition to Erivo and Grande’s much-anticipated duet, the Academy has announced an exciting lineup of artists set to grace the stage:
- Doja Cat: Known for her genre-blending hits and captivating stage presence, she’s sure to bring her unique flair to the Oscars stage.
- Lisa of Blackpink: The K-pop sensation will make her Oscars debut, adding an international flavor to the evening’s performances.
- Queen Latifah: A multifaceted artist with a rich history in music and film, her performance is expected to be a highlight of the night.
- Raye: The British singer-songwriter’s soulful voice will add depth and diversity to the musical lineup.
These artists will participate in “showstopping performances celebrating the filmmaking community and some of its legends,” as stated by the Academy. Additionally, the evening will feature a special appearance by the Los Angeles Master Chorale, adding a layer of grandeur to the event.
Anticipation Builds for a “Defying Gravity” Performance
While the exact setlist remains under wraps, fans are buzzing with excitement over the possibility of Erivo and Grande performing Wicked‘s iconic number, “Defying Gravity.” This powerful anthem has become synonymous with the musical’s theme of breaking free from societal constraints, and a live rendition at the Oscars would undoubtedly be a show-stopping moment.
A Night to Remember
As the countdown to March 2 begins, the 2025 Oscars are shaping up to be a night where Hollywood glamour meets musical magic. With Wicked‘s stars leading a lineup of diverse and dynamic performers, this year’s ceremony promises to captivate audiences worldwide, bridging the gap between critical acclaim and mainstream appeal. So, mark your calendars and prepare to be enchanted as the Oscars celebrate the art of filmmaking and the music that brings it to life.
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