Difference between Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s pay-check revealed!
Fans of Wicked were stunned when rumors of massive pay disparities between Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo hit social media.
Wicked movie plot explained.
The film, released on November 22, adapts the hit Broadway musical, with Grande as Glinda and Erivo as Elphaba.
Wicked tells the untold story of the witches of Oz, exploring how Glinda became “Good” and Elphaba was vilified as “Wicked.”
Based on Gregory Maguire’s novel, the musical debuted in 2003 and became a global sensation.
Director Jon M. Chu’s film adaptation is part one of a two-part release, with an estimated $145 million production budget.
The movie’s star-studded cast also includes Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, and Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard.
Despite their contrasting paths, Grande and Erivo bonded during filming, often praising each other’s performances.
Erivo, a Tony and Emmy winner, brings years of theatrical experience, while Grande’s global music fame introduces Wicked to new audiences.
Success of Wicked revealed.
Wicked has become a box-office hit, earning $164.2 million globally during its opening weekend.
The movie is lauded for its music, performances, and emotional depth, cementing it as a must-watch of 2024.
Both Grande and Erivo have emphasized their mutual respect and joy in working together.
“This story is bigger than us,” Grande said, reflecting on the legacy of Wicked and its message of acceptance.
Erivo echoed, calling the experience “a dream come true.”
Amidst the film’s success, the spotlight has now shifted to Ariana and Cynthia’s salaries.
Social media explodes over the alleged pay gap.
As the alleged salaries spread, fans debated whether stardom or role prominence should dictate pay.
“If Cynthia is the lead, why would she earn less?” one commenter asked, while others defended Grande’s earning potential as a global superstar.
“Cynthia carries the emotional weight of the story,” one person noted, arguing she deserved at least equal compensation.
Others pointed to Grande’s draw as a pop icon with millions of followers, suggesting her fame justified a higher paycheck.
Universal swiftly dismissed the rumors, calling them “internet fodder” with no basis in truth.
According to a spokesperson, both women were paid equally, ensuring fairness in their contracts.
Even though Universal refuted the claims, fans say the backlash highlights ongoing disparities in Hollywood salaries.
Women, particularly women of color, have long faced pay inequities compared to their white or male co-stars.
TikTokers referenced similar controversies in past productions to illustrate systemic issues in the industry.
“The fact that these rumors felt so believable says a lot about Hollywood’s history,” a commenter remarked.
So, what salary are Ariana and Cynthia receiving to cause such controversy?
Wicked star’s salaries exposed.
Allegations claimed Grande earned $15 million, while Erivo made just $1 million—a $14 million gap that ignited heated debate online.
While Universal has since denied the rumors, saying both were paid equally, the conversation has exposed broader issues in Hollywood.
The alleged figures first appeared on TikTok, where users expressed outrage over the supposed imbalance.
Some fans accepted Universal’s clarification, expressing relief that both actresses were treated equally.
Others remained skeptical, arguing Hollywood’s track record makes such claims difficult to believe.
What’s next for Wicked?
Part two of the adaptation is slated for release in 2025, continuing Elphaba and Glinda’s journey.
Whether the pay gap rumors fade or persist, one thing is certain: Wicked remains at the center of Hollywood’s cultural conversation.