Ariana Grande Tests Positive for COVID During "Wicked: For Good" Press Tour

Ariana Grande has tested positive for COVID-19 during the promotional tour for Universal's film "Wicked: For Good." The announcement came via an Instagram story where Grande shared a photo from her recent appearance on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon," captioned “moments before Covid.” This diagnosis has led to her withdrawal from several promotional events, including a scheduled appearance on "The Kelly Clarkson Show," which her co-star Cynthia Erivo will now attend solo.

Variety Magazine

The press tour for "Wicked: For Good" has been eventful, commencing on November 4 in São Paulo, Brazil, and continuing through major cities like Paris, London, Singapore, and New York City. Grande's absence from the New York premiere was notable, as she and Erivo opted out of red carpet interviews due to health concerns. Erivo had been feeling unwell and lost her voice, prompting Grande to show solidarity by skipping interviews.

Variety Magazine

Grande's positive COVID-19 test is not the first health-related issue affecting the cast. Both actresses had previously contracted the virus during the filming of the first "Wicked" movie, which caused temporary production delays. Grande's current diagnosis has resulted in her missing additional promotional activities, including Q&A sessions scheduled for the coming days.

Variety Magazine

The press tour has also faced security challenges. During the Singapore premiere, a man named Johnson Wen jumped the red carpet barricades and attempted to grab Grande. Erivo intervened, and Wen was subsequently sentenced to nine days in jail for his actions. This incident highlighted the pressures and risks associated with high-profile promotional events.

The Guardian

Despite the challenges faced during the press tour, "Wicked: For Good" is projected to achieve significant box office success. Estimates suggest an opening weekend gross of between $150 million and $180 million from approximately 4,000 North American theaters. This performance could position it as the highest-grossing opening for a film adaptation of a Broadway musical, surpassing the original "Wicked," which earned $112.5 million during its debut.

Deadline Hollywood

In light of her diagnosis, Grande expressed gratitude for the support she has received. She previously stated, “We are so grateful. We are great. Cynthia’s great, too,” during the New York premiere, emphasizing the camaraderie between the cast members.

Variety Magazine

While the promotional tour has garnered excitement, some fans expressed disappointment over Grande's absence from the New York premiere and other events. Grande addressed this backlash on her social media, acknowledging her fans' concerns while prioritizing health.

The Guardian

• “moments before Covid.” — Ariana Grande, on Instagram

Variety Magazine

• “We are so grateful. We are great. Cynthia’s great, too,” — Ariana Grande, at the New York premiere

Variety Magazine

Ariana Grande's positive COVID-19 test has interrupted her participation in the "Wicked: For Good" press tour, reflecting the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic. Despite these setbacks, the film is poised for a strong box office performance, continuing the legacy of its predecessor.

Variety Magazine