The 2025 Oscars kicked off with a mesmerizing performance by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, leaving the audience spellbound. The duo, stars of the hit film “Wicked,” delivered a stunning medley that included iconic songs from various Wizard of Oz projects. Their performance not only showcased their incredible vocal talents but also paid homage to the rich history of the beloved story.
A Sparkling Start with “Somewhere Over the Rainbow”
Ariana Grande opened the show in a dazzling red dress, reminiscent of Dorothy’s ruby slippers from the 1939 classic. She captivated the audience with her rendition of Judy Garland’s timeless classic, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” Grande’s powerful yet tender voice filled the Dolby Theater, setting the stage for an unforgettable performance.
Grande’s Preparation for the Role
Grande’s journey to the Oscars stage was no easy feat. In an interview on Amazon Music’s Zach Sang Show, she revealed that preparing for the “Wicked” auditions took six months of intense training. “I trained every single day,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to proving she could handle the role of Glinda, the future good witch.
Her preparation included daily voice and acting lessons, all while she served as a judge on the popular singing competition show, The Voice. Grande’s dedication paid off, as her performance at the Oscars showcased her growth as an artist.
Cynthia Erivo’s Emotional “Home”
Following Grande’s opening number, Cynthia Erivo took the stage in a stunning strapless white gown adorned with purple flowers. The dress, inspired by Diana Ross’ portrayal of Dorothy in the 1978 film “The Wiz,” transitioned to green at the bottom, a nod to Erivo’s character, Elphaba, in “Wicked.”
Erivo’s rendition of “Home” from the 1975 Broadway musical “The Wiz” was nothing short of breathtaking. Her powerful voice and emotional delivery left the audience in awe, proving once again why she is considered one of the greatest talents of her generation.
The Rigorous Training Behind Erivo’s Performance
Like Grande, Erivo underwent extensive training for her role in “Wicked.” In addition to vocal preparation, she shared that she would wake up at 2 a.m. for two-hour workouts before heading to set. This rigorous routine was essential for the scenes where she had to sing while “flying” in a harness.
At a recent Variety FYC screening, Erivo discussed the commitment both she and Grande had to their roles. “The training we both had to do on our voices in order to make those sounds took time, for both voice and body,” she explained. “It isn’t easy to sing in a harness up in the air. But these women deserve our all. So we threw ourselves into it—whether it was a 2 a.m. wake-up call, a 5 a.m. makeup call, or a two-hour workout.”
A Duet That Defied Gravity
The highlight of the performance came when Grande and Erivo joined forces for a duet of “Defying Gravity” from their film “Wicked.” Holding hands, the duo showcased their incredible chemistry and vocal prowess, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats.
As the song reached its climax, Grande stepped aside, allowing Erivo to take center stage and deliver the impossibly high closing notes. The camera panned to show the emotional reactions of the “Wicked” team, including director Jon M. Chu and co-star Michelle Yeoh, who wiped away tears as they applauded the performance.
The Impact of the Performance
The duo’s performance received a standing ovation from those gathered at the Dolby Theater. The medley not only showcased their talents but also highlighted the enduring legacy of the Wizard of Oz story and its various adaptations.
“Wicked” itself was nominated for 10 Oscars, a testament to the film’s critical and commercial success. The performance at the Oscars served as a powerful reminder of why the film has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
Other Musical Moments at the 2025 Oscars
Grande and Erivo’s performance was just one of several musical highlights throughout the night. Other artists scheduled to take the stage included Doja Cat, Lisa of BLACKPINK, and Raye, promising a night filled with unforgettable performances.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences had previously confirmed that Grande and Erivo would deliver a “spellbinding” performance at the Academy Awards. In a social media post shared on February 24, the Academy shared a video featuring clips of the pair in the Warner Bros. film and on the red carpet at the previous year’s Oscars, teasing that it would be a “performance you won’t forget.”
The Enduring Legacy of “Wicked”
“Wicked,” based on the novel by Gregory Maguire, has become a cultural phenomenon since its debut on Broadway in 2003. The story, which explores the untold backstory of the witches of Oz, has resonated with audiences of all ages.
The 2024 film adaptation, starring Erivo as Elphaba and Grande as Glinda, brought the beloved story to a new generation of fans. The film’s success at the box office and its multiple Oscar nominations have solidified its place in cinematic history.
The Importance of Representation in “Wicked”
One of the reasons “Wicked” has struck such a chord with audiences is its focus on representation and inclusivity. Erivo, who earned a Tony Award for her role in the musical revival of “The Color Purple,” brought her own experiences as a woman of color to her portrayal of Elphaba.
Similarly, Grande’s casting as Glinda challenged traditional beauty standards and showcased the importance of diverse representation in leading roles. The film’s success has proven that audiences crave stories that reflect the world around them.
The Future of Musical Films
The success of “Wicked” and the impact of Grande and Erivo’s Oscars performance have sparked renewed interest in musical films. The genre, which has seen a resurgence in recent years, offers a unique opportunity for storytelling and showcasing talent.
As more filmmakers explore the possibilities of musical storytelling, audiences can look forward to a new wave of innovative and emotionally resonant films. The 2025 Oscars, with its focus on musical performances, may mark a turning point in the industry’s approach to this beloved genre.
The Role of Streaming Platforms
Streaming platforms have played a significant role in the resurgence of musical films. Services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ have invested in original musical content, making it more accessible to a global audience.
The success of films like “The Prom” and “Hamilton” on these platforms has demonstrated the demand for musical storytelling. As the industry continues to evolve, streaming services will likely play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of the genre.
Conclusion: A Night to Remember
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s performance at the 2025 Oscars was a testament to their talent, dedication, and the enduring power of the “Wicked” story. Their medley, which paid homage to the Wizard of Oz legacy while showcasing their own unique interpretations, left a lasting impact on all who witnessed it.
As the night continued with more musical performances and the presentation of the coveted awards, the audience at the Dolby Theater and viewers at home were reminded of the magic that can be created when artists pour their hearts into their craft. The 2025 Oscars will be remembered as a celebration of music, storytelling, and the transformative power of cinema.
For more coverage of the 97th annual Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O’Brien and airing on ABC, be sure to check out PEOPLE’s full coverage. And to stay up-to-date on the latest in celebrity news and compelling human interest stories, sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter.
Source: people.com