Actresses Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo have responded to public reaction over their frequent hand-holding and affectionate gestures during the promotional tour for their film Wicked: For Good — and explained there was nothing romantic behind it. According to them, the closeness was simply a form of comfort and emotional support, not a publicity stunt or statement of anything beyond friendship.
On a recent podcast, Grande said she often channels energy and reassurance through physical touch, especially when navigating the intense pressures of public appearances and scrutiny. Erivo echoed the sentiment, calling their bond supportive and genuine, rooted in mutual trust and solidarity after years working closely together.
Their remarks came after some critics labelled their behavior as overly familiar; the actresses made clear that their gestures were non-sexual, meant only to lift each other up during a demanding promotional schedule.
At the red-carpet premiere and across interviews, their relaxed, warm connection stood out — but as they stress, it was never intended as anything more than friendship and shared respect under the spotlight.