*The studio behind “Wicked” has addressed rumors about pay discrepancies between stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo.
Online reports had alleged a massive gap, claiming Grande was paid $15 million for her role as Glinda while Erivo earned just $1 million as Elphaba. The studio dismissed these claims as false, emphasizing that the two leads received equal compensation, though it did not disclose specific salary figures.
“Reports of pay disparity between Cynthia and Ariana are completely false and based on internet fodder. The women received equal pay for their work on Wicked,” a spokesperson for Universal said statement shared by The Hollywood Reporter.
Meanwhile, the weekend box office saw a massive boost with “Wicked” and “Gladiator 2” raking in a combined $270.2 million globally, signaling strong momentum heading into the holiday season.
Universal’s “Wicked” achieved $114 million domestically, making it 2024’s third-largest domestic debut and the biggest for a non-sequel film this year. Globally it earned $164.2 million, breaking records as the best global opening for a Broadway musical adaptation and a career-best debut for Erivo and Grande. The film also generated $19.2 million in domestic previews alone.
Scroll to continue reading
“Wicked” unpacks the story of Elphaba and Glinda, who “meet as students at Shiz University in the fantastical Land of Oz and forge an unlikely but profound friendship. Following an encounter with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship reaches a crossroads and their lives take very different paths. Glinda’s unflinching desire for popularity sees her seduced by power, while Elphaba’s determination to remain true to herself, and to those around her, will have unexpected and shocking consequences on her future. Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will ultimately see them fulfill their destinies as Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West,” per the synopsis.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Jon M. Chu and based on Gregory Maguire’s bestselling novel, “Wicked” is the first chapter of a two-part immersive experience, with “Wicked: Part Two” slated for a release theatrically on November 26, 2025.
READ MORE FROM EURWEB.COM: ‘Wicked’ and ‘Gladiator 2’ Drive $270.2 Million Box Office Surge Ahead of Holiday Season
