The highly anticipated Wicked movie adaptation is generating significant buzz, and fans are eager to learn more about the stars bringing their favorite characters to life on the big screen. Among the most discussed is Ariana Grande, cast as the beloved Glinda. As audiences prepare to be enchanted by Wicked, a common question arises: How Old Is Ariana Grande, and how does her age align with the character of Glinda in the movie?
This article delves into Ariana Grande’s age, both in real life and in relation to her role as Glinda in Wicked: Part One and the planned Part Two. We will also explore the age of her co-star, Cynthia Erivo, and compare their ages to the characters they portray, offering a comprehensive look at the ages behind the magic of Wicked.
Ariana Grande’s Age Compared to Glinda in Wicked: Part One
In Wicked: Part One, Glinda is introduced as a young freshman at Shiz University. Characteristically, college freshmen are often around 17 or 18 years old, setting the initial age range for Glinda at the beginning of the Wicked narrative.
Ariana Grande’s real age adds an interesting layer to this portrayal. Production for Wicked commenced in June 2022, shortly after Ariana Grande celebrated her 29th birthday. By the time of the movie’s release, Ariana Grande’s age will be approximately 31 years old. This means Ariana Grande is portraying a character significantly younger than her actual age during filming and at the release of Wicked: Part One.
However, the Wicked story spans a considerable time. Wicked: Part Two will take place several years after the events of the first part. In the later part of the story, Glinda is likely to be between 21 and 24 years old. This time jump bridges the gap between Ariana Grande’s real age and the character’s age progression throughout the Wicked saga.
It’s also interesting to note the age of Kristin Chenoweth when she originated the role of Glinda on Broadway in 2003. Kristin Chenoweth was 35 years old when Wicked first premiered on stage, further highlighting the trend of actresses portraying Glinda being older than the character’s initial age.
Cynthia Erivo’s Age and Elphaba in Wicked
Similarly, understanding Cynthia Erivo’s age in relation to her character, Elphaba, provides further context. Elphaba’s age is slightly different from Glinda’s at the beginning of Wicked. Elphaba is depicted as being a few years older than Glinda. When she arrives at Shiz University, it is initially not as a student but to bid farewell to her younger sister, Nessarose. It is only after demonstrating her powers to Madame Morrible that Elphaba becomes a student.
Considering Nessarose is assumed to be around the same age as Glinda (17-18), Elphaba’s age in Wicked: Part One is estimated to be approximately 20-21 years old.
When production for Wicked began in June 2022, Cynthia Erivo was 35 years old. Upon the film’s release, Cynthia Erivo’s age will be around 37. Like Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo is also portraying a character younger than her actual age.
Idina Menzel, who originated the role of Elphaba on Broadway, was 32 years old when Wicked premiered in 2003. This again shows a similar pattern of actresses being older than their characters when taking on these iconic Wicked roles.
In conclusion, while both Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo are older than their characters Glinda and Elphaba at the start of Wicked: Part One, this is a common practice in casting and musical theatre. Their talent and portrayal are eagerly awaited, and the age difference is unlikely to detract from their captivating performances in the Wicked movies. Audiences are ready to see their interpretations of these beloved characters, regardless of their real ages.
