Awards Chatter Pod: Oscar Nominee Ariana Grande on Making ‘Wicked,’ Her Greatest Hits, and the Pros and Cons of Being “Popular”

In a thrilling new episode of Awards Chatter, host Scott Feinberg sits down with one of Hollywood’s brightest stars, Ariana Grande, to discuss her Oscar nomination, the highly anticipated Wicked adaptation, and her impressive career journey that has cemented her as both a pop music icon and now, a serious contender in the film industry.

Grande, who earned her first-ever Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Glinda the Good Witch in Wicked, opens up about the challenges and joys of stepping into the beloved role made famous by Kristin Chenoweth on Broadway. “It’s been surreal,” says Grande. “Taking on such an iconic character was a lot of pressure, but I felt this incredible responsibility to make sure I honored her legacy while making her my own.” She also shared that collaborating with co-star Cynthia Erivo (who plays Elphaba) has been one of the most rewarding experiences of her career. “Our chemistry was instant, and we really leaned into the complexity of these characters.”

Alongside her film career, Ariana also touched on her pop music journey. Known for her powerful voice and hits like "Thank U, Next" and "Problem," Grande revealed that creating her greatest hits albums has been a deeply personal process. “Each song is a chapter of my life, and getting to relive those moments while performing them for my fans has been a beautiful experience,” she said. When asked about her favorite track, Grande hesitated but admitted, “It’s hard to pick just one, but ‘No Tears Left to Cry’ always holds a special place for me—it felt like a fresh start.”

Feinberg then shifted the conversation to the complexities of fame. As one of the most recognized names in the entertainment industry, Grande spoke candidly about the pros and cons of being in the public eye. “It can be overwhelming at times. You don’t have a private life anymore, and there’s this pressure to maintain a certain image,” she explained. “But at the same time, the ability to connect with people and inspire them—that’s the reward. The fans are everything to me.”

When asked about the impact of her fame on her mental health, Grande acknowledged the challenges but emphasized her efforts to maintain a balance. “I’m constantly learning how to protect my peace. It’s important to take a step back when needed, prioritize your well-being, and focus on the things that truly matter.”

As for what’s next, Grande teased some upcoming projects, including new music and, of course, Wicked. "There’s a lot in the pipeline, and I can’t wait to share more with everyone,” she said with a smile, leaving fans eagerly awaiting what’s to come from this multi-talented star.

Catch the full Awards Chatter episode for more insights from Ariana Grande as she continues to evolve from chart-topping singer to an Oscar-nominated actress.