Ariana Grande Halts Promotions for ‘Wicked’ Following COVID Diagnosis

Post by : Mina Rahman

Ariana Grande has tested positive for COVID-19 amid her promotional efforts for *Wicked: For Good*. She confirmed her diagnosis via an Instagram story, featuring an image from her appearance on *The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon* with the caption, “Moments before Covid.” Her positive test follows her notable absence during interview segments at the New York premiere of the film, which had raised concerns regarding her health.

Cynthia Erivo, Grande's co-star, recently shared that she had also been unwell, mentioning that she temporarily lost her voice. While their positive tests occurred at different times, this is not the first overlap in their health struggles. During the production of the initial *Wicked* film, Erivo tested positive just before filming the memorable “Defying Gravity,” while Grande faced her own health scare ahead of shooting the song “Popular.”

Due to her COVID diagnosis, Grande has canceled a scheduled taped appearance on *The Kelly Clarkson Show* and will miss several upcoming Q&A sessions surrounding the film release. The promotional campaign has been highly vigorous, making her absence particularly evident.

*Wicked: For Good*, under the direction of Jon M. Chu, is slated for release on November 21. The film continues the journey of Glinda and Elphaba after the events of the first installment. Grande reprises her role as Glinda, characterized as the radiant embodiment of goodness in Emerald City, while Erivo's Elphaba grapples with escalating animosity from Oz's authorities. Branded as the Wicked Witch and forced into exile, she remains resolute in revealing the truths about The Wizard, portrayed by Jeff Goldblum.

Although the recent COVID diagnoses have momentarily hindered promotional activities, once the cast members recover, efforts to promote this highly anticipated film are expected to resume. With its storied legacy, vast fanbase, and broadened narrative arc, *Wicked: For Good* is poised to be one of this year's most eagerly awaited global cinematic releases.