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Back in 2008, a young Ariana Grande made her Broadway debut in the musical drama '13,' stepping into the spotlight among a talented all-teen cast. Fast forward to October 2025, and the pop star-turned-actor found herself on a nostalgic journey when she reunited with her former '13' castmates at a special screening of her upcoming film, 'Wicked: For Good.' This moment was more than just a retrospective; it highlighted her progress while clinging to the early friendships and theatrical origins that shaped her career.
From Broadway's '13' to Global Stardom
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Ariana Grande's journey started long before her chart-topping hits and sold-out arena tour. Back in 2008, she made her professional debut in the Broadway musical '13,' created by Jason Robert Brown. The band and cast, which were both made up completely of teens, were what set the show apart. It depicted the story of a young kid negotiating the difficulties of adolescence.
Alongside future stars Elizabeth Gillies and Allie Trimm, Grande portrayed Charlotte, a passionate cheerleader. Despite its brief Broadway run, '13' has since grown to become a cult classic among theatregoers and educational institutions all over the world. For Ariana, the experience was a foundation that improved her performance skills and gave her lifelong friendships that would later cross paths again in Hollywood.
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A Heartfelt Reunion and Timeless Friendships
Fast forward to 2025, Ariana Grande found herself surrounded by familiar faces at the 'Wicked: For Good' film screening in Los Angeles on Monday, 28th October, where she reunited with Allie Trimm and Aaron Simon Gross—both of whom were part of the original '13' cast. The three recalled about their time together on Broadway, shared hugs, and posed for pictures.
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Fans quickly noticed how genuine and emotional the reunion felt, as Grande and her former co-stars celebrated how their teenage dreams has now blossomed into successful careers. Trimm, who now stars as Glinda in the Broadway production of 'Wicked,' joined Ariana in reflecting on how life has now come to a full circle.
The occasion was a heartwarming reminder that while success and celebrity can alter everything, genuine friendships, particularly those formed onstage, remains timeless.
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Coming Full Circle With 'Wicked: For Good'
Now stepping into her biggest acting role yet, Ariana Grande stars as Glinda in the highly anticipated film adaptation of 'Wicked,' which is 'Wicked: For Good' opposite to Cynthia Erivo who will playing the role of Elphaba. For Grande, who grew up idolizing the musical, this role feels like destiny fulfilled—merging her love for theatre with her evolution as a pop icon.
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Image Courtesy: Variety
The reunion with her '13' family at the 'Wicked: For Good' screening perfectly captured this full-circle moment, highlighting her journey from a Broadway teen to a leading lady in one of Hollywood's most anticipated musicals.
In addition to being reminded of her extraordinary talent, fans are also reminded of the passion and humility that have accompanied her throughout her artistic career as she gets ready for the film's 21st November release.