/indigomusic/media/media_files/2025/10/31/feature-wicked-filming-2025-10-31-11-41-55.png)
Director Jon M. Chu is celebrating the remarkable friendship that blossomed between Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo while filming the 'Wicked' movies.
Speaking at a private dinner hosted by Gold House and OpenTable at Win Son in Brooklyn recently, the 45-year-old filmmaker reflected on how the two stars' connection helped shape the heart of the highly anticipated musical adaptation.
Jon M. Chu on Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo's Bond
Chu described their bond as one of the most beautiful aspects of the production, noting that Grande and Erivo’s respect and admiration for one another elevated both their performances and the overall spirit on set.
/filters:format(webp)/indigomusic/media/media_files/2025/10/31/cynthia-erivo-ariana-grande-jon-m-chu-2025-10-31-11-41-55.jpg)
Image Courtesy: People
According to Jon M. Chu, both actresses—known for their powerhouse vocals and commanding stage presence—could easily have been rivals given their immense talent and fame. Instead, they approached their roles as Glinda and Elphaba with humility, collaboration, and a shared dedication to the story. Jon M. Chu explained that their commitment to putting 'Wicked' above personal egos reflected their artistry and deep understanding of the beloved characters they portray.
The director credited their teamwork with making Elphaba and Glinda feel more vivid and emotionally layered than ever before. He said their energy brought new life to the story, making it feel culturally relevant to today's audiences and helping him as a filmmaker capture the essence of friendship, rivalry, and transformation at the centre of 'Wicked.'
/filters:format(webp)/indigomusic/media/media_files/2025/09/25/feature-wicked-for-good-2025-09-25-12-04-16.png)
Image Courtesy: IMDb
Jon M. Chu on Filming 'Wicked'
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo step into roles originally played by Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth in the Broadway hit. Jon M. Chu recalled that filming 'Wicked: Part One' came with plenty of nerves, admitting that everyone involved—from the cast to the crew—felt the pressure to live up to the musical's legacy.
Still, the team leaned on trust, creativity, and mutual support to bring Oz to life in a way that resonated with audiences worldwide.
The director, who also helmed 'Crazy Rich Asians' and 'In the Heights,' said he cherished the close bond that developed between him and his stars, describing the cast as a true family. He emphasised that his working relationship with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo blended professional collaboration with genuine friendship, something that made the project deeply meaningful.
/filters:format(webp)/indigomusic/media/media_files/2025/08/07/wicked-for-good-2025-08-07-14-32-40.png)
Image Courtesy: IMDb
In addition to Grande and Erivo, the 'Wicked' films feature an all-star cast including Michelle Yeoh, Marissa Bode, Bowen Yang, Ethan Slater, Jonathan Bailey, and Jeff Goldblum. Chu teased that the sequel, titled 'Wicked: For Good,' will explore the characters on a deeper level and deliver even more spectacular performances when it premieres in theatres on 21st November.
Jon M. Chu Asks Fans to Enjoy 'Wicked' Part Two
The director encouraged fans to sit back, relax, and enjoy what he promises will be an emotional and visually breathtaking journey through Oz. He hinted that while the first film introduced audiences to the magic of Wicked, the upcoming sequel will showcase Grande and Erivo at their very best—offering moments that will surprise even the most devoted fans of the musical.
/filters:format(webp)/indigomusic/media/media_files/2025/09/25/wicked-for-good-2025-09-25-12-04-17.png)
Image Courtesy: IMDb
With its dazzling performances, heartfelt storytelling, and the undeniable chemistry between its leading ladies, 'Wicked' continues to soar beyond expectations, proving that true friendship can create real movie magic.
