The cinematic journey through the Land of Oz has officially concluded with the release of Universal Pictures’ highly-anticipated sequel, “Wicked: For Good,” which premiered on November 21. This second part of the two-film adaptation brings the complex story of the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good to its epic finale. To mark the emotional closing chapter of this monumental project, co-stars Ariana Grande (Glinda) and Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba) commemorated the completion of their unforgettable tenure with moving Instagram posts.
A Sisterhood Sealed by Stardust
The emotional depth of the “Wicked For Good” farewell was immediately evident in the personal messages shared by the leading ladies. Ariana Grande’s post, accompanying a carousel of intimate, behind-the-scenes photographs, struck a tone of profound gratitude and finality.
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Addressing her character directly, Grande wrote, “thank you, my sweet Glinda, for everything. i will love you always … Wicked For Good is out now.” This simple yet powerful statement encapsulated the deep connection she formed with Glinda, acknowledging the character’s transformative impact on her life and career.
Meanwhile, Cynthia Erivo’s tribute to her time as Elphaba was a more expansive, reflective meditation on the enormity of the experience. Erivo confessed that mere words felt insufficient to capture the gravity of the journey, stating, “I could write you an essay, a poem, Shakespearean prose, to describe what this journey has meant to me… The truth is the numbers are too small and the words are not enough.”
Her eloquence highlighted the role’s complex emotional and artistic demands, suggesting lessons and growth far beyond the scope of a typical acting role. By offering a metaphor of walking a “road paved with gold,” she shared the hope that the fulfillment she found might resonate with those watching the film.
The finality of both messages, despite their differing tones—Grande’s sweet and direct, Erivo’s poetic and expansive—unified them in their heartfelt appreciation for the experience. Erivo concluded her sentiment simply, “Thank you for letting me be your Elphaba,” before signing off as “C.” Both actresses simultaneously uploaded their respective carousels of behind-the-scenes images, creating a shared digital space where fans could witness their bond and the intimate moments of their transformative work.
