Co-star's quick thinking prevents further incident
Cynthia Erivo is being widely applauded for her instinctive protective actions after a fan unexpectedly breached security and grabbed Ariana Grande during the Wicked: For Good premiere in Singapore on Thursday 13 November 2025.
The alarming incident occurred on the red carpet when a man identified as Johnson Wen jumped over the barricade and made physical contact with the 32-year-old singer. Viral footage of the event shows Erivo, 38, immediately stepping between Grande and the approaching fan, physically pushing him away before security personnel eventually intervened.
Security response questioned by fans
While social media users celebrated Erivo's protective instincts, many expressed serious concerns about the security team's delayed response. Fans questioned why professional bodyguards paid to protect the stars failed to act more quickly, forcing Erivo to put herself in potential danger.
One fan commented online: "While what Cynthia did was commendable, she shouldn't have to expose herself to getting attacked when there are actual bodyguards that are PAID to protect the both of them. Why were they so slow to act?" Another observer noted that the situation "could have been so much worse" given the security lapse.
Notorious repeat offender
The individual responsible for the incident, Johnson Wen, has a history of similar behaviour at celebrity events. Wen previously was arrested in Australia in June after rushing the stage during a Katy Perry concert. Following the Singapore incident, Wen posted videos on his Instagram bragging about the confrontation and thanking Grande for "letting" him jump next to her.
Social media users strongly condemned Wen's actions, with one commenting: "You literally assaulted her. This isn't a flex, it's a crime. Shame on you!" Another wrote: "Do you think this is okay? This is sick! It ruined the experience for fans who dreamed of this moment and put lives at risk."
After the frightening encounter, both Erivo and their co-star Michelle Yeoh comforted a visibly shaken Grande. The incident comes shortly after Grande had addressed online threats from angry Wicked franchise fans who were upset about her missing the film's premiere in Brazil, prompting her to post a statement on Instagram pleading: "Please don't wish danger on us."
