The Internet was in a frenzy when reports appeared about the alleged huge difference in remuneration of the two main stars of the film adaptation of the musical “Wicked”. According to rumors, Ariana Grande was supposed to earn $15 million for the role of Glinda, while Cynthia Erivo, playing Elphaba, received only one million.
The speculations heated up on social media, especially TikTok, where users shared their outrage. One of the more popular posts stated: “The salary difference between Ariana and Cynthia is CRAZY. They both have equally important roles so it’s absurd!”
Spokesman Universal Pictures quickly responded to these allegations, calling them “completely false.” Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, he strongly denied that Grande and Erivo were paid different rates: “Reports of a pay disparity between Cynthia and Ariana are completely false and based on internet rumors. The women were paid the same for their work on ‘Wicked’.”
Many commentators pointed out that the rumors gained popularity because they were part of widely discussed cases of pay inequality in Hollywood, especially in the context of race. One of the TikTok users said: “This story was credible because, unfortunately, similar situations really happen. This time, however, it seems that the creators of ‘Wicked’ have been fair.”
Despite this media storm, “Wicked” is a huge success. The film premieres on November 22 it grossed an impressive $164.2 million around the world, breaking box office records.
The film is an electrifying story about… the unique friendship of Elphaba (the Wicked Witch of the West) and Glinda (the Good Witch). The girls are students of Shiz University in the commonly known Land of Oz. Elphaba, characterized by a green skin color, has not yet discovered her true power. After meeting the Wizard of Oz, the friendship of the young students will be in question. Glinda, wants popularity and power, and Elphaba will remain true to herself.
The film is directed by Jon M. Chu. They played the main roles Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, Bowen Yang and Peter Dinklage. The script was written by Holzman. Schwartz is the author of the music. The film debuted in cinemas on November 21, 2024. According to the announcement, we will be able to see the second part next year.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, John M. Chu revealed what viewers can expect in the next film.
See also: Jan P. Matuszyński about “Minghun”. This is the “brightest film” of his career