Ariana Grande Reacts to Paparazzi Hang-Gliding to Wicked Set: 'No Way!'

Ariana Grande recently found herself at the centre of a bizarre and unexpected situation while filming the highly anticipated ‘Wicked ‘movie. In a startling incident that quickly made headlines in 2024, paparazzi resorted to using a hang-glider to capture exclusive shots of the pop star on the set. Grande's reaction to the event was a mix of disbelief and astonishment, perfectly encapsulated in her remark, "There’s no way!"

The ‘Wicked’ production, already a subject of intense media scrutiny due to its star-studded cast and high expectations, has faced various challenges in maintaining the privacy and security of its filming locations. However, the lengths to which some photographers will go to obtain images reached a new extreme with this incident. The sight of a hang-glider hovering above the set has not only raised concerns about privacy but also about the safety of the cast and crew.

Image Courtesy: Pinkvilla

The ‘Wicked’ movie, in which Grande plays the iconic role of Glinda, has been in production for several months, with fans eagerly awaiting any news or updates. The hang-gliding paparazzo, however, brought the kind of attention that the production team could have done without. The incident has reignited discussions about the need for stricter regulations and boundaries to protect the privacy of public figures, particularly in situations where safety is compromised.

Despite the unusual interruption, production on ‘Wicked’ continues, with the cast and crew remaining focused on bringing the beloved musical to the big screen. Grande's professionalism and ability to maintain her composure in the face of such an intrusive incident have been widely praised. Her response has also sparked conversations about the ethics of paparazzi behaviour and the impact it can have on celebrities.

The use of a hang-glider by paparazzi represents a new level of intrusion, one that highlights the lengths to which some will go to obtain a shot. It has also raised questions about what measures can be taken to better protect high-profile individuals during film productions. For Grande, this experience seems to have reinforced her resolve to continue advocating for privacy and respect in her personal and professional life.

As the ‘Wicked’ movie nears completion, fans remain excited about the film’s release, albeit with a heightened awareness of the challenges faced by those in the spotlight. Grande's reaction to the incident, while humorous to some, underscores the ongoing battle between celebrities and the invasive nature of modern media coverage.

-Sushmita Sarkar