Ariana Grande Dishes About Glinda, Growth, and Safe Spaces in ‘Wicked: For Good’

"Wicked: For Good"—the second installment in Jon M. Chu’s cinematic retelling of the beloved musical—has set the stage for a new era of storytelling, with pop icon Ariana Grande stepping into the iconic role of Glinda. In a recent feature with Empire, Grande opened up about the evolution of her character, the significance of the film’s new music, and what the story means for those who have long sought belonging and acceptance in Oz and beyond .

One of the most anticipated elements of ‘Wicked: For Good’ is the introduction of two original songs by composer Stephen Schwartz: “No Place Like Home,” performed by Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, and “Girl in the Bubble,” performed by Ariana Grande as Glinda. Both actors offered a glimpse into the emotional core of these songs during their Empire interview.

Grande described “Girl in the Bubble” as a pivotal moment for Glinda, saying, “We get to see Glinda decide, ‘I’m going to change the course of Oz. I’m going to become deeply, truly good and make a safe space for people.’ She earns her title for real, and we get to see that self-discovery. I’m so grateful for that song, because she deserves it as a character” .

For many LGBTQ+ viewers, the notion of “making a safe space” is more than just a plot point—it is a deeply resonant theme. Grande’s words echo the ongoing quest for acceptance, visibility, and the right to live authentically, themes that have been central to both the original ‘Wicked’ and its cultural legacy among LGBTQ+ fans .

‘Wicked’ has long been celebrated as a story of outsiders finding their voices, and for many transgender people, gay men, lesbians, bisexual, queer, and nonbinary viewers, it has offered a metaphor for the struggles—and triumphs—of living authentically. The addition of new songs and an updated narrative arc in ‘Wicked: For Good’ aims to deepen that connection.

Grande’s approach to Glinda is both playful and purposeful. She reportedly leaned into her character’s complex dynamic with Dorothy, referencing Glinda’s iconic advice, “Follow the yellow brick road,” while adding nuance and depth to Glinda’s motivations . This updated portrayal acknowledges Glinda’s imperfections but centers her growth and her conscious choice to become a force for good—a theme that may resonate with LGBTQ+ audiences who have experienced their own journeys of self-discovery and empowerment.

Director Jon M. Chu and composer Stephen Schwartz have both emphasized the importance of authentic representation in this new adaptation. With Grande and Erivo at the helm, the film promises to bring intersectional stories to the forefront, reflecting the diversity of Oz—and of the world outside the Emerald City .

During her interview, Grande’s reflections on “Girl in the Bubble” highlighted not just Glinda’s transformation, but also the broader importance of creating and protecting safe spaces—both on screen and in real life. “She earns her title for real, and we get to see that self-discovery. I’m so grateful for that song, because she deserves it as a character,” she told Empire .

For LGBTQ+ viewers, the language of “safe spaces” carries special weight. Across many communities, safe spaces are foundational for queer and transgender people to express themselves without fear, to build community, and to celebrate their identities. By foregrounding this theme, ‘Wicked: For Good’ and its stars are sending a powerful message of affirmation and belonging.

The film’s November 21, 2025, release is poised to be a major cultural event, with anticipation building not only for its musical numbers and visual spectacle, but for its commitment to centering stories of belonging and the courage it takes to be “truly good” in a world that often resists difference .

As the world prepares for the premiere of ‘Wicked: For Good,’ the conversation sparked by Ariana Grande’s interview is already making waves. For LGBTQ+ youth and adults alike, the promise of seeing characters struggle with self-doubt, seek acceptance, and ultimately claim their place in the world is both timely and timeless.

The collaboration between Grande, Erivo, Chu, and Schwartz is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling—and to the importance of representation on the biggest stages. As Grande concluded in her Empire interview, Glinda’s journey is one of “self-discovery,” a message that continues to inspire and empower LGBTQ+ audiences everywhere .

‘Wicked: For Good’ opens in theaters November 21, 2025, with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo leading a cast and creative team committed to telling stories that matter—to Oz, and to all who have ever sought a place to call home .