Universal Studios has responded to claims that Ariana Grande was paid $14 million more than her Wicked co-star, Cynthia Erivo.
The movie is based on Gregory Maguire’s 1995 book and L. Frank Baum’s classic The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, tells the story of Elphaba’s journey to becoming the Wicked Witch of the West and her complex relationship with Glinda the Good Witch.
The film features a star-studded cast, including Erivo, Grande, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, Jonathon Bailey, and Ethan Slater, making it one of the most anticipated films.
However, the movie has faced some controversy, including rumors about a big pay difference between the two lead actresses. Universal has now addressed these claims.
Rumors have been spreading on social media, claiming that Grande was paid $15 million for her role as Glinda, while Erivo, who plays Elphaba, earned only $1 million.
One TikTok video said: “NO because the pay gap between Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo is INSANE. Ariana Grande paid 15 million, whilst Cynthia Erivo paid a measly one million for Wicked, when in my opinion – both had identical roles.”
Fans of the musical have shown their anger over this claim, pointing out that Elphaba’s character is likely more important to the story, as Wicked is a prequel to The Wizard of Oz, telling the story of how Elphaba became the Wicked Witch of the West.
A Universal representative has now responded to these claims and clarified the situation.
The representative told The Hollywood Reporter: “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.”
Several sources close to the production have confirmed this, agreeing that there was no pay difference between the two stars.
Some social media users have since reflected on how quickly the false information spread.
One TikToker said: “Whoever started that rumor probably did it for clicks, likes, and views. The reason why the rumor spread so much was because it was very believable.”
While the claims were not true, the controversy brings attention to larger concerns about pay inequality in the entertainment industry.
The same TikToker pointed to other cases where Black actors were paid less than their white counterparts, adding: “So while the directors of Wicked did what needed to be done, there are a lot who would not do the same. So don’t spread lies, but don’t forget this is America.”
Since its release on November 22, Wicked has had a big impact at the box office, earning $164.2 million worldwide in its opening weekend.
