Pop sensation Ariana Grande is signaling a possible pivot in her career, moving from her chart-topping pop anthems toward the enchanting world of musical theatre. In a revealing conversation with her Wicked co-star Bowen Yang on the Las Culturistas podcast, co-hosted by Yang and Matt Rogers, the 31-year-old artist shared her aspirations for a more theater-centered future.
Known for her mega-hits like “7 Rings” and “Thank U, Next,” Grande spoke candidly about her growing passion for musical theatre, sparked by her role as Glinda the Good Witch in the upcoming Wicked film adaptation. “It’s my heart,” she admitted, acknowledging that this shift might shock some fans. “I’m going to say something scary—it’s going to scare the absolute life out of my fans, but they’ll handle it, and we’ll be here forever.”
Reassuring her fanbase, Grande clarified that she’s not abandoning pop music entirely. “I’m always going to make music, always going to go on stage and do pop stuff. I pinky promise,” she said. However, she hinted at slowing down the relentless pace that has characterized her career over the past decade, explaining that her rediscovered love for musical theatre has altered her perspective. “Doing it at the same rate for another 10 years just isn’t where I see myself,” she shared, suggesting that theatre may play a larger role in her future creative pursuits.
Grande’s connection to musical theatre runs deep; before her rise to fame as Cat Valentine on Victorious, she starred as a young performer in 13: The Musical. Now, reconnecting with that side of herself feels like a homecoming. “Returning to that part of me—the theatre kid who loves comedy and finds joy in performing—it’s healing,” she said. “Finding roles that let me use those parts of myself, to give them homes in characters, voices, songs, it’s been deeply fulfilling.”
As fans eagerly await Wicked: Part One, set to premiere on November 22, followed by Part Two on November 26, 2025, Grande’s journey back to her roots has added even more anticipation to her portrayal of Glinda. This new direction signals a fresh, creative era for Grande, one that may meld her pop stardom with her deep love for the theatrical stage.
For Grande, this shift represents not a departure but an evolution—an opportunity to embrace the artistry that first inspired her. Fans of both her pop persona and her theatrical talent now await how she will blend these worlds, bringing a new dimension to her career.
