Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande have faced backlash over a series of emotional interviews during the press tour for the upcoming film adaptation of the Broadway musical Wicked. In a recent viral clip, Erivo broke down in tears while discussing the green makeup she wears as her character Elphaba.
Speaking to Pink News, Erivo, 37, became visibly emotional as she explained that removing the makeup each day made her feel more comfortable in her own appearance. Grande, 31, clutched her co-star's hand and praised her beauty, saying, 'You f***ing are! Holy sh**, you know?'
Film fans mocked the exchange on social media, with some describing it as 'an emotional support group' and others saying the awkward interactions have put them off seeing the movie. One user wrote: 'I’m old enough to remember when press junkets made you want to go see the film.'
This is not the first cringeworthy moment from the tour. In another clip, Grande was seen holding Erivo's finger during an interview with Out.com, where Erivo reacted emotionally to a reporter's comment about fans 'feeling power' from the song 'Defying Gravity'. Critics questioned whether the interviews were genuine or part of a comedy sketch.
The film, directed by Jon M. Chu, is set for release later this year. Despite the negative attention, the press tour has kept the movie in the public eye.
