Ariana Grande Drops Lace & Breaks Silence on Cynthia Erivo Romance Rumors in Cover Shoot

Ariana Grande Addresses Romance Rumors with Wicked Co-Star Cynthia Erivo in Striking Hollywood Reporter Feature

Ariana Grande turned heads on the cover of The Hollywood Reporter, showcasing bold fashion while addressing whispers of a secret romance with Wicked co-star Cynthia Erivo. The 31-year-old Oscar-nominated star (for her role as Glinda) stunned in a Schiaparelli gown from the 2024 collection, its lace design highlighting her figure as she posed braless. Towering heels completed the old Hollywood glamour look, solidifying her A-list status. [Image: Ariana on THR cover]

During the interview, Ariana laughed off speculation about her bond with Erivo, fueled by their tearful, hand-holding moments during the Wicked promo tour. “People think we’re secretly married,” she said, referencing fan theories dubbing their characters’ supposed “sapphic romance” as “Gelphie” (Glinda + Elphaba). “I wish I could unsee some [fan art]. I had a feeling, but wow—it’s graphic.” [Image: Ariana and Cynthia at a Wicked event]

Both stars’ real-life relationships have sparked controversy. Ariana began dating co-star Ethan Slater in 2022 while both were still married. Their romance went public days after she split from husband Dalton Gomez. Similarly, Cynthia faced scrutiny for her relationship with actress Lena Waithe, which began shortly after Waithe’s 2021 divorce. The pair first met at the 2018 Met Gala and were later spotted holding hands at events.

Meanwhile, Ariana opened up about healing her parents’ fractured relationship. On Marc Maron’s WTF podcast, she revealed mediating between mom Joan Grande and dad Edward Butera, who divorced when she was young. “It took 18 years, but I forced them to communicate,” she said. By her 24th birthday (2017), she urged them: “Figure it the f— out.” Now, she says, “They’re best friends. It’s the best thing.” [Image: Ariana with her mom Joan]

As Wicked continues its Oscars campaign, Ariana’s candor and style keep her in the spotlight—proving she’s as magnetic offscreen as on.

Image Captions

1. Ariana Grande stuns on The Hollywood Reporter cover in a Schiaparelli gown.
2. Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s close bond fueled romance rumors during Wicked press tours.
3. Ariana credits herself for reuniting her parents, Joan Grande and Edward Butera.
4. The singer’s ethereal lace dress highlighted her daring fashion sense for the shoot.
5. Cynthia Erivo and Lena Waithe’s relationship began post-Waithe’s 2021 divorce.

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