Actress Cynthia Erivo addresses rumors she and Ariana Grande were ‘lovers’

Cynthia Erivo has addressed months of online speculation suggesting she and Ariana Grande were secretly more than just co-stars in Wicked.

Throughout the film’s press tour, fans closely analysed their emotional interviews, lingering hugs and hand-holding moments, with some social media users claiming their bond appeared romantic.

In a recent interview, Cynthia described the reaction as a “strange fascination,” explaining that some people seemed unable to accept that two women could share a deep, affectionate friendship without it being interpreted as a love story. She made it clear there was no hidden relationship, but rather a genuine connection formed while portraying Elphaba and Glinda.

The speculation also contrasted with Ariana’s personal life. She has been publicly linked to her Wicked co-star Ethan Slater since production on the film began.

Cynthia, for her part, keeps her private life largely out of the spotlight but has been in a long-term relationship with actress and producer Lena Waithe.

Her comments appear aimed at putting the rumours to rest, framing their bond as a close friendship that became amplified and over-analysed in the era of viral press tours and online commentary.