‘Wicked’: Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande pay disparity rumor debunked

Universal Studios Denies Pay Disparity Rumors Between Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo for ‘Wicked’

Rumors circulating on social media claimed that Ariana Grande was paid significantly more than her costar Cynthia Erivo for their roles in the movie adaptation of “Wicked.” However, Universal Studios has stepped in to clarify the situation and set the record straight.

The speculation suggested that Grande received a whopping US$15 million for her portrayal of Glinda, while Erivo only received US$1 million for playing Elphaba. But according to a spokesperson for Universal, these claims are completely false.

“Reports of pay disparity between Cynthia and Ariana are completely false and based on internet fodder,” the spokesperson stated. “The women received equal pay for their work on ‘Wicked.'”

Both Grande and Erivo have been receiving critical acclaim for their performances in the Jon Chu-directed musical. The audience response has been overwhelmingly positive, with theaters seeing a surge in attendance for the first installment of what is planned to be a two-film franchise.

The box office numbers reflect this success, with “Wicked” reportedly grossing an estimated US$162 million during its opening weekend.