Ariana Grande-Butera reached out to Cynthia Erivo throughout Wicked‘s contract negotiations to ensure that she and her co-star received equal pay and fair treatment. The 2024 movie brings the stage musical exploring the origins of The Wizard of Oz‘s Wicked Witch of the West (known here as Elphaba, played by Erivo) to the big screen. As part of the Wicked cast, Grande-Butera portrays Galinda Upland, a young new student of Shiz University hoping to learn sorcery who will one day become Glinda the Good Witch.

Following much discussion surrounding a potential pay discrepancy between Grande-Butera and Erivo for their roles in Wicked, the former addressed the matter with Variety. Grande-Butera recollected that she reached out to Erivo before signing any agreement to learn what she had received in her contract, discussing even the smallest details with her fellow star. She said:

When I got my contract, I called [Erivo], and was like, ‘Hey let’s go through this thing. Let’s go beat by beat through this together and make sure we are aligned in what we need.’ If [Erivo needs] something, we need it together. I want us to have each other’s backs. Your problems become my problems and mine become yours.

What Grande-Butera’s Response Means For Wicked’s Pay Controversy

Grande-Butera And Erivo Have A Close Bond Off-Screen

Grande-Butera’s response is another firm refutation of the widespread internet speculation that arose prior to the release of Wicked. Initial word of mouth suggested Grande-Butera received $15 million for her involvement, while Erivo was set to only receive $1 million in comparison, despite being considered the ostensible lead. However, Universal quickly came out to dispel the rumors with various outlets soon after, assuring each star had received equal pay.

The roles of Elphaba and Glinda are often considered co-leads, but Erivo will compete in Leading categories for awards, while Grande-Butera will be Supporting.

Grande-Butera’s further statement not only sets out to clarify that each star received equal pay for their work, but that they would also get equal, fair treatment on set too. Furthermore, both Grande-Butera and Erivo have been shown to have a close bond throughout the press tour for Wicked, suggesting that they developed a firm friendship throughout production. As such, it is clear that the pair have a great deal of affection towards one another, adding further weight to both Grande-Butera’s recollection and the movie itself, which revolves around their characters’ friendship.

Our Take On The Supposed Wicked Pay Discrepancy

Both Stars Gave Their Best In The Feature And Deserve To Be Compensated Equally

If the rumors surrounding Wicked‘s pay disparity were true, it would be a massive upheaval that cast a shadow over both the movie and the upcoming Wicked: Part Two. Both Grande-Butera and Erivo deliver the movie’s strongest performances, and their chemistry both on-screen and off has added to its acclaim, with both receiving considerable Oscar buzz. They should both be treated as equals, regardless of the fact that Grande-Butera is arguably the bigger name between the two.

Though the rumors were already dubious and Universal had already debunked them, Grande-Butera’s statement is a welcome clarification that should settle the discourse. With Wicked performing strongly at the box office, it is clear that the production will be a highlight of each star’s filmography, and one that could lead to further acclaim and prospects.