Ariana Grande: From Pop Princess to Oscar Nominee
Ariana Grande has officially crossed into Oscar territory. The pop superstar earned her first Academy Award nomination in the Best Supporting Actress category for portraying Galinda “Glinda” Upland in Wicked. The nod positions Grande alongside heavyweights Monica Barbaro (A Complete Unknown), Felicity Jones (The Brutalist), Isabella Rossellini (Conclave), and Zoe Saldaña (Emilia Pérez).
From Cat Valentine to Glinda: Ariana’s Hollywood Glow-Up
Grande’s journey to Oscar recognition began on TV, where she first captured attention as the bubbly Cat Valentine on Nickelodeon hits Victorious and Sam & Cat. While her music career skyrocketed, her on-screen appearances remained sporadic. After a cameo in 2021’s Don’t Look Up, Wicked marked her first leading role in a feature film, and clearly, it was a game-changer.
Wicked, adapted from the Broadway sensation of the same name, is directed by Jon M. Chu and tells the untold story of the witches of Oz. Grande stars opposite Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba and is also nominated for Best Actress. The film itself is competing in the coveted Best Picture category, cementing its status as a cinematic triumph.
Bubble over to Mix's playlist and listen like Glinda!
No Stranger to Trophies: Grande’s Wicked Year of Awards
Grande’s Oscar nomination follows a string of accolades. She was previously recognized by the Golden Globes, BAFTA, SAG Awards, and Critics Choice Awards. Her performance as Glinda—part sugar, part steel—has drawn praise for its emotional depth and comedic timing, a departure from her larger-than-life pop persona.
What’s Next for Grande?
With Wicked: For Good—the sequel—set for a November 21, 2025, release, Grande’s cinematic journey is just beginning. Fans can expect more soaring high notes and magical performances from the singer-turned-actress, who now boasts a résumé as glittering as her signature outfits.
Supporting Actress Nominees:
- Monica Barbaro (A Complete Unknown)
- Ariana Grande (Wicked)
- Felicity Jones (The Brutalist)
- Isabella Rossellini (Conclave)
- Zoe Saldaña (Emilia Pérez)
More pop music news from Mix 105.1
