The internet has officially entered its overthinking era again. Videos and photos of Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo being extra warm, close, and physically affectionate at the Wicked events have gone viral, and of course, social media has instantly turned it into another unnecessary controversy. People are calling it “too touchy,” “strange,” and “overly intimate,” as if two women supporting each other is a crime.
But if you actually look at Ariana’s body language, the story feels completely different. She doesn’t look chaotic or inappropriate. She looks like someone who feels safe around a person who understands her on a deeper level. Ariana has been through more trauma than most celebrities her age. People forget she survived one of the most horrific experiences an artist can go through. The Manchester Arena bombing didn’t just shake the world, it changed her life forever. And trauma like that does not disappear. It stays in your nerves, your body, your instinctive reactions.
So when fans see Ariana holding Cynthia’s hand, leaning into her shoulder, staying physically close, or seeking reassurance, what if it’s simply her being comfortable with someone she trusts? What if it’s not scandalous at all, just human?
Cynthia Erivo, on her end, has spoken many times about the emotional weight of doing Wicked, especially with themes of identity, belonging, and isolation. Both actresses have been open about navigating intense emotional landscapes while filming. Spending months together on a massive project like this naturally creates deep bonds.
And honestly, call it trauma bonding, call it sisterhood, call it friendship. Whatever you call it, it’s clear these two women have built a connection that feels grounding for both of them. In every clip, Cynthia looks protective, present, and genuinely caring. Ariana looks like she finally has someone in her space who doesn’t want anything from her except for her to be okay.
#ArianaGrande and #CynthiaErivo together at the #WickedForGood premiere in NYC pic.twitter.com/O57MS3SBzO
— MuchMusic (@Much) November 18, 2025
People forget that intimacy between friends is allowed. Comfort is allowed. Touch is allowed. Women supporting women is allowed. Not everything is a scandal or secret romance or hidden drama.
Also Read: Ariana Grande Says Her Eternal Sunshine Tour Might Be Her “One Last Hurrah”
Sometimes, it is just two people holding each other up because life hasn’t always been kind.
And honestly, after everything Ariana has endured, if she has finally found someone she feels safe around, why is the internet so eager to turn that into something negative?
Let them be. Let them breathe. Let them heal.
