Ariana Grande has described her role as Glinda in the upcoming film adaptation of *Wicked* as the most demanding of her career. The 32-year-old singer and actress, who has a diverse background that includes her Broadway debut at age 15 and a successful stint as a Nickelodeon star, reflected on this challenging experience in a heartfelt letter to the American Critics Choice Association (CCA) ahead of the 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards.
As Grande prepares for the awards, she has received a nomination for her portrayal of Glinda in the film, which has garnered a total of seven nominations. Her letter, shared on social media platform X, begins with a poignant statement: “Playing Glinda has been the privilege of my life and the most demanding role of my career.” This sentiment underscores the significance of the character to her personally and professionally.
Exploring Glinda’s Complex Character
Grande elaborated on Glinda’s role, emphasizing her mission to encourage audiences to look beyond themselves. The character serves as a reminder that it is never too late to become an ally, especially during times of division. For Grande, one of the greatest challenges in embodying Glinda was ensuring that she remained a grounded character.
“The work involved playing what she does not yet see but what she feels,” Grande explained. She noted that the craft required her to embrace the character’s inner emptiness while maintaining her humorous exterior. “The most rewarding part of the work that goes into a role like Glinda is finding that balance, making room for both her light and darkness to coexist,” she added. This nuanced approach highlights Grande’s commitment to delivering a layered performance.
Personal Growth Through Performance
Grande expressed gratitude for the challenges presented by the role, stating, “Playing Glinda was a challenge that I will always be grateful for.” She acknowledged that her extensive training and life experiences have prepared her for this specific role. “All of the classes I’ve taken, all of the things I’ve practiced became useful in this one, singular role,” she wrote.
The singer believes that Glinda’s strength, rather than her comedic nature or high-pitched voice, made her the right fit for the character. “She made me laugh, cry, dance, sing, float, smile, and crumble,” Grande said. Reflecting on the multifaceted nature of Glinda, she emphasized the unique opportunity this role presents. “I don’t know if I’ll ever again play a character that contains so many multitudes,” she remarked.
Concluding her heartfelt message, Grande expressed appreciation for the audience’s support. “Thank you for taking the time to watch this film that I am, and we all are, so endlessly proud of.” Her dedication to the role and the film itself resonates with fans and critics alike, showcasing her passion and commitment to her craft.
As the release date for *Wicked* approaches, anticipation builds for Grande’s portrayal of Glinda, promising to be a standout performance in her already illustrious career.
