Okay movie fans did you catch the Oscars opening this year? If you blinked you might have missed something truly special. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo the stars of the upcoming Wicked movie totally blew everyone away with a performance that was part Wicked part Wizard of Oz and all amazing. Seriously people are still talking about it and for good reason.
Somewhere Over the Rainbow... to Oz-cars! Ariana Grande's Dress and Vocals Paid Homage to a Classic
Ariana Grande who is playing Glinda in the Wicked movie kicked things off with "Somewhere Over the Rainbow". Yes THAT "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" from The Wizard of Oz. It was a beautiful rendition and a perfect way to start the show especially since it was a nod to the roots of Wicked which as you know is a Wizard of Oz story but told from a different angle.
But it wasn't just her voice that had people talking. Ariana's dress was a showstopper itself! She wore this stunning ruby red Schiaparelli gown that was covered in sparkles. Seriously it was like she was channeling Dorothy's ruby slippers but in dress form. And get this the dress had a hidden detail. On the back there was a literal ruby slipper design like one of Dorothy's shoes magically became part of the gown. How cool is that? It was a subtle but super sweet tribute to The Wizard of Oz.
From Oz to The Wiz and Wicked: Cynthia Erivo Brought Down the House with Broadway Power
Next up Cynthia Erivo who is Elphaba in Wicked took the stage and she absolutely killed it. She sang "Home" from The Wiz another iconic musical movie that's also Oz-related but with a totally different vibe. Cynthia's voice is just incredible and she brought all the emotion and power to that song.
And just like Ariana Cynthia's dress was also a tribute. She wore a gorgeous strapless gown that was similar to what Diana Ross wore in The Wiz movie back in the 70s. It was another perfect way to connect the performance to the legacy of Oz on screen and stage.
Defying Gravity Together! Ariana and Cynthia's Duet Was the Mashup We Didn't Know We Needed
Then came the moment everyone was waiting for. Ariana and Cynthia joined forces for a duet and of course they sang "Defying Gravity" from Wicked. This song is a classic for a reason and these two powerhouse vocalists did not disappoint. They brought their own styles to it but their voices blended together so well.
Cynthia even hit THAT famous high note at the end the one that has become a meme since the Wicked movie trailers came out. The chemistry between Ariana and Cynthia was obvious and infectious. They have been doing press together for the movie and their real-life friendship totally shines through on stage. It was clear they were having a blast up there and the audience was loving every second.
Judy Garland's Daughter Lorna Luft Reacts and Her Words Will Melt Your Heart
The sweetest part of all this? Judy Garland's daughter Lorna Luft saw the performance and she had the most heartwarming reaction. Judy Garland of course played Dorothy in the original Wizard of Oz movie so this whole performance was a tribute to her legacy too. Lorna Luft took to Instagram to thank Ariana Cynthia and the Academy. She wrote "Thank you to @arianagrande @cynthiaerivo & @theacademy for honoring my mother's memory so beautifully. Myself and my family are very grateful." She signed off with "All Love Lorna" and a heart emoji. Seriously could it get any sweeter than that?
Wicked at the Oscars: Key Moments from the Magical Performance
- Ariana Grande's "Somewhere Over the Rainbow": A beautiful and emotional rendition kicking off the Oscars with a Wizard of Oz classic.
- Ariana's Ruby Slipper Dress: A dazzling red Schiaparelli gown with a hidden ruby slipper detail as a tribute to Dorothy.
- Cynthia Erivo's "Home" from The Wiz: A powerful and soulful performance connecting to another iconic Oz adaptation.
- Cynthia's Diana Ross Inspired Dress: A strapless gown echoing Diana Ross's look in The Wiz movie.
- Ariana and Cynthia's "Defying Gravity" Duet: An epic mashup of talent and chemistry with Cynthia nailing the iconic high note.
- Lorna Luft's Grateful Reaction: Judy Garland's daughter publicly thanked the performers for honoring her mother's legacy.
Wicked is Coming Soon! Get Ready for the Movie Musical Event of the Year
All this Wicked buzz at the Oscars is getting everyone even more excited for the Wicked movie. The first part Wicked: Part One is coming out later this year and after seeing Ariana and Cynthia on that Oscars stage it's clear they are going to be amazing as Glinda and Elphaba.
Wicked even won two Oscars that night Best Costume Design and Best Production Design. Looks like the Academy is already giving it some love. If you missed the Oscars performance you can probably find clips online. And get ready because Wicked: Part One will be available to purchase on Prime Video and Apple TV+ and stream on Peacock soon. The second part Wicked: For Good is coming to theaters in November 2025. Get ready to be swept away to Oz!