Ariana Grande has candidly discussed the emotional toll that the music industry has had on her mental health and how stepping into the world of acting—particularly through her role in the Wicked movie—has provided a much-needed sense of healing and renewal.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the Grammy-winning singer reflected on the immense pressures of fame and how constantly embodying the persona of a global pop star affected her well-being.
“At a certain point, you get tired of that [pop star] character, because it is a character,” she shared. “There are pieces of you and your story woven into your songwriting, but as your music travels and becomes sensationalized, it starts to feel like it gets away from you.”
The Thank U, Next hitmaker expressed that beneath the glitz and glamour of the industry, she has always been just “a girl from Boca who loves art.” She revealed that taking on the role of Glinda in Wicked has been an unexpected but transformative experience, allowing her to step away from the pressures of music and immerse herself in a new form of creative expression.
“I think that’s why it’s been such a deeply healing gift to disappear into this character—to take off one mask and put on another,” she explained, noting how acting has given her a fresh perspective and a sense of emotional relief.
Due to this newfound passion, Ariana stated that she has no immediate plans to return to music. “Acting is feeling like home right now,” she admitted, signaling that fans may have to wait before hearing new music from her. She previously mentioned that she had no plans to tour anytime soon, as she is eager to explore more acting opportunities.
Looking ahead, Ariana shared her excitement for future projects, emphasizing her desire to follow roles that deeply resonate with her. “It’s so important to stay connected to that guttural creative thing in my heart that makes me say, ‘Oh, that’s a really cool challenge.’ That’s what drives me now,” she reflected.
With her shift towards acting, Ariana Grande continues to evolve as an artist, embracing new challenges while prioritizing her mental and emotional well-being.