"Wicked: For Good," featuring the dynamic duo of Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, has captivated audiences, shattering box office records with an astonishing $150 million opening weekend, achieving the largest international debut for a stage musical adaptation.
Fans expressed mixed feelings over the controversial removal of a romantic scene between Glinda and Fiyero, sparking discussions about character portrayals in this reimagined tale.
Director Jon M. Chu made bold creative choices, including hiding the film's poignant final shot from studio executives, which emphasizes the emotional bond between Glinda and Elphaba.
A dramatic incident at the Singapore premiere saw a man rush the stage to grab Grande, but Erivo's quick action to protect her co-star highlighted their strong friendship, resulting in the assailant's arrest and short jail sentence for public nuisance.
Amid a whirlwind press tour, Grande faced her own health struggles, later revealing her COVID-19 diagnosis shortly after the premieres, underscoring the pressures surrounding the film's launch.
In an emotional farewell, Grande reflected on her journey with Glinda, leaving fans touched as she closed this significant chapter of her career amidst a backdrop of celebration and controversy.
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