Ariana Grande has shared that playing Glinda “Glinda” Upland in the upcoming film adaptation of *Wicked* has proven to be the most demanding role of her career. The 32-year-old artist, who debuted on Broadway at just 15, has enjoyed a diverse career that includes becoming a Nickelodeon star and achieving significant success as a singer. Grande’s reflections on her role come ahead of the *Critics’ Choice Awards* ceremony scheduled for March 2026, where she has been nominated for her performance in *Wicked: For Good*.
In a heartfelt letter addressed to the American Critics Choice Association (CCA), Grande expressed her deep connection to the character of Glinda. The letter, shared on social media platform X, begins with the poignant statement, “Playing Glinda has been the privilege of my life and the most demanding role of my career.” She elaborated on Glinda’s purpose, noting that the character invites audiences to look beyond themselves and recognize the importance of becoming allies in times of division.
Challenges in Portraying Glinda
One of the significant challenges for Grande was ensuring that Glinda felt like a grounded character. She explained, “Much of the work was playing what she does not yet see but what she feels.” This nuanced approach required Grande to balance Glinda’s light-hearted exterior with deeper emotional currents. She emphasized the importance of allowing moments of stillness to reveal Glinda’s complexities, stating, “The most rewarding part of the work that goes into a role like Glinda is finding that balance, making room for both her light and darkness to exist together.”
Grande highlighted the personal growth she experienced through this role, saying, “All of the classes I’ve taken, all the things I’ve practiced became useful in this one, singular role.” She believes that many of her life experiences have prepared her to embody Glinda, noting that the character’s comedic nature and high voice were not the only reasons it felt destined for her.
A Lasting Impact
Reflecting on the emotional journey of portraying Glinda, Grande shared, “She made me laugh, cry, dance, sing, float, smile, and crumble.” This role, she noted, encompasses a multitude of emotions, and she is grateful for the challenge it presented. Grande concluded her letter with heartfelt appreciation, stating, “Thank you for taking the time to watch this film that I am, and we all are, so endlessly proud of.”
As *Wicked* prepares for its release, the anticipation surrounding Grande’s performance continues to build. With seven nominations at the Critics’ Choice Awards, including her own, the film is set to be a highlight of the upcoming awards season.
