Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo Bid Emotional Farewell to Their Wicked Characters

After completing the two-part film series, the actresses share heartfelt tributes to Glinda and Elphaba, celebrating a journey that changed them “for good.”

The world of Oz is closing its emerald curtains once more — this time for Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, who have officially said goodbye to their iconic Wicked characters, Glinda and Elphaba. Following the release of the second installment, Wicked: For Good, both stars took to social media to share emotional reflections on a transformative chapter in their careers.

Cynthia Erivo posted a moving collection of behind-the-scenes photos, including moments on the yellow brick road, snapshots with her castmates, and soaring mid-air as Elphaba. In her poetic caption, she described the experience as indescribably profound. “I could write you an essay… but the truth is the numbers are too small and the words are not enough,” she wrote. Inviting fans to walk the “road paved with gold” alongside her, she ended with heartfelt gratitude: “Thank you for letting me be your Elphaba.”

Ariana Grande also shared a tender tribute to Glinda, accompanied by images of her pink gowns, her trailer, and her iconic wand. “Thank you, my sweet Glinda, for everything,” Grande wrote. “I will love you always.” The official Wicked film account echoed the sentiment, praising her as their “dazzling Glinda.”

The production also released additional behind-the-scenes footage of Grande and Erivo—laughing, dancing, hugging, and playfully tackling each other—highlighting a friendship that became as magical as the story itself.

Wicked: For Good follows the deepening and complicated relationship between Elphaba and Glinda as they step into the roles that define Oz’s mythology. Director Jon M. Chu revealed that the overwhelming success of the first film, which earned 10 Oscar nominations, allowed the team to craft a more emotionally raw and character-driven sequel. “The audience is in and they want the characters to grow,” he said, noting that he no longer needed to “sugarcoat” the darker moments.

As their time in Oz concludes, Grande and Erivo leave behind more than dazzling performances — they leave a legacy that has moved fans around the world. Their goodbyes may mark the end of their journey, but the impact of their portrayals is sure to linger “for good.”