So many fans have watched Ariana Grande grow up in front of their eyes—from her early days on *Victorious* to her chart-topping music career and now, her highly anticipated role in the big-screen adaptation of *Wicked*. The transformation from a young Nickelodeon actress to an international pop icon and now a leading lady in one of the most talked-about musical films of the decade is something fans just can’t stop talking about.

If you’ve been keeping up with Ariana’s career, you know how much she’s changed—not just in looks, but in her artistry, her confidence, and the way she handles the spotlight. And now that *Wicked* is finally coming to life on the big screen, people are curious about how this role has affected her journey. So, where did she start, and where is she now? Let’s break it down.

This article dives into Ariana Grande’s journey before *Wicked*, how she evolved as an artist and performer, and what the *Wicked* era has brought to her career so far. Whether you’ve been a fan since her *Yours Truly* days or just jumped on the bandwagon with *Thank U, Next*, there’s something here for everyone who’s curious about how Ariana got to where she is today.

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Table of Contents

• Biography: Who Is Ariana Grande?
• Ariana Grande’s Personal Details
• Ariana Grande Before *Wicked*
• Her Role in *Wicked* and the Hype Around It
• Ariana Grande After *Wicked*: What’s Next?
• Frequently Asked Questions

Biography: Who Is Ariana Grande?

Ariana Grande is more than just a singer or an actress. She’s a cultural force. Known for her powerhouse vocals and signature high ponytail, Ariana has built a legacy that spans music, TV, and now, film. She first stepped into the spotlight on *Victorious* and *Sam & Cat*, but quickly proved she was meant for more than just teen roles. Her music career took off with her debut album *Yours Truly* and has only grown from there.

She’s released a string of successful albums including *My Everything*, *Dangerous Woman*, *Thank U, Next*, and *Positions*, earning her multiple Grammy Awards and breaking countless records. But now, with her role as Glinda in *Wicked*, she’s stepping into a new chapter of her career—one that’s already making waves.

Ariana Grande Personal Details

Ariana Grande Before *Wicked*

Ariana’s early career was all about finding her voice. She started out in musical theater, performing in *13: The Musical* on Broadway, which gave her a taste of the stage and the kind of vocal demands that would later serve her well in *Wicked*. But when she first came into the pop spotlight, her image was more sweet and girly, a far cry from the powerful persona she’d eventually take on.

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Her debut album *Yours Truly* was a nod to her R&B roots, especially influenced by Mariah Carey, whom she’s often compared to. But even then, you could tell she was just getting started. As she grew as an artist, her music took on a more mature, bold sound. Albums like *Dangerous Woman* and *Thank U, Next* showed a different side of her—one that was more vulnerable, more confident, and more experimental.

Before *Wicked*, Ariana had already proven she could handle big emotions and complex storytelling through her music. But *Wicked* was going to be a whole new kind of challenge. It would test her acting chops, her stage presence, and her ability to carry a role that required both vocal strength and dramatic depth.

Her Role in *Wicked* and the Hype Around It

When it was announced that Ariana Grande would be playing Glinda in the film adaptation of *Wicked*, fans went wild. For many, it felt like the perfect fit. Glinda is powerful, glamorous, and full of personality—traits Ariana has always brought to the stage and screen. But playing a character from such a beloved Broadway hit also came with pressure.

The production was delayed more than once, but the anticipation never died down. Fans kept checking in for updates, and Ariana teased glimpses of her preparation, including costume fittings and vocal training. The *Wicked* era marked a new kind of visibility for her, one that blurred the lines between pop stardom and theatrical excellence.

Even before the film was released, Ariana’s involvement sparked conversations about how music and theater could come together in a new, fresh way. Her casting wasn’t just a career move—it was a statement that she was ready for more than just music videos and concerts. She was ready for the big screen, and for one of the most iconic roles in musical history.

Ariana Grande After *Wicked*: What’s Next?

After *Wicked*, the big question is: what’s next for Ariana? She’s already dropped hints about new music, and fans are hoping she’ll return to touring soon. In a recent interview, she said she’s not leaving music behind, even as she explores acting more seriously. So, it’s safe to say we haven’t seen the last of Ariana on stage or in the studio.

Her performance in *Wicked* could very well open doors to more film roles, especially ones that blend music and storytelling. And if the response to her casting is any indication, she could be looking at award nominations and even more global recognition. But no matter where she goes from here, one thing is clear: Ariana Grande isn’t just a pop star anymore. She’s a full-on entertainer.

She’s also been more open about her personal growth, her style evolution, and her journey toward self-acceptance. And that’s part of what makes her so relatable. Whether you’re watching her perform live or seeing her on screen, there’s a sense that she’s not just giving a performance—she’s sharing a part of herself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ariana Grande leaving music after *Wicked*?

Nope, not at all. Ariana has made it clear she’s not leaving music behind. She recently announced she’s not quitting or abandoning music, and even teased possible live performances for 2026.

What role does Ariana Grande play in *Wicked*?

Ariana plays Glinda, the popular and magical witch who becomes best friends with Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West. It’s a role that requires both strong vocals and strong acting, and Ariana seems to be nailing both.

How has Ariana Grande changed since her early career?

Ariana has gone through a major transformation—both personally and professionally. From her sweet, girly image on *Victorious* to her more mature and confident style in recent years, she’s grown into a strong, independent artist who’s not afraid to take risks.