Cynthia Erivo Discusses Fan Incident at Singapore Premiere of Wicked: For Good

Cynthia Erivo has addressed the unsettling incident involving Ariana Grande during the Singapore premiere of Wicked: For Good. As the cast approached the yellow carpet, a man named Johnson Wen leapt over a barricade and grabbed Grande. Erivo quickly intervened, attempting to protect her co-star from the unexpected assault.

In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, Erivo reflected on the turmoil surrounding the incident. She expressed her thoughts during a special Screen Actors Guild screening held at the Television Academy in Los Angeles, stating, “We have come through some shit. We have come through some stuff in our lives.” She emphasized the challenges they have faced, both personally and professionally, before adding, “This movie has allowed us to really grow as people, as friends, as sisters, as artists, as actresses.”

The heartfelt remarks from Erivo resonated with Grande, who visibly became emotional as Erivo spoke. Grande expressed her gratitude for the tight-knit bond formed among the cast, noting, “You don’t get a group of people this close often on a set. You don’t earn family like this often, and we have. A f**king lucky thing to be a part of.”

Following the incident, Wen faced charges for being a public nuisance. He later updated his Instagram story, announcing his release after being arrested.

Wicked: For Good first premiered at the Suhai Music Hall in São Paulo, Brazil, and is scheduled to debut in U.S. theaters on November 21, 2023. The musical fantasy explores the lives of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, who enjoys fame in the Emerald City. Their paths cross again when an angry mob threatens Elphaba, drawing them back together.

The incident at the premiere has raised concerns about fan interactions with celebrities, highlighting the need for increased security measures at public events. As the film nears its release, both Erivo and Grande are focused on the positive aspects of their experience while remaining vigilant about their safety.