'Wicked' stars Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivo address wild poster fan edits made in the age of AI

[Enter Stage Rite]

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo are defying the gravity of fan-edited posters of the movie adaptation of the long-running musical Wicked, releasing this November 22.

 

The original poster showcases Erivo, who plays Elphaba, staring directly at the viewer, with Grande’s Glinda whispering in her ear. However, some fans have taken creative liberties, altering Erivo’s appearance to align more closely with the Broadway show’s iconic imagery.

 

In these fan-made versions, Erivo’s eyes are hidden beneath a hat, and her lips are transformed to a bold red—changes that she has publicly criticized. Describing the edits as “degrading” and “deeply hurtful,” Erivo expressed frustration that her face was obscured, emphasizing the importance of her portrayal being seen as it was intended.

 

 

Adding to the drama, one viral animated edit depicts the two actresses in a mock fight. A caption commonly attached to these posts, reading, “Is your p*ssy green?”, references a notorious piece of graffiti that once defaced a Wicked play poster in 2014 or earlier.

 

 

Grande, addressing the situation at the Academy Museum Gala with Variety, acknowledged the mixed feelings she has about the trend of remixing art with AI. While she understands the creative enthusiasm driving fans to make edits, she also admitted the impact can sometimes be harmful. 

 

The pop singer said the issue was a “complicated” one, describing AI as “so conflicting and troublesome.” However, she noted getting used to the technology was a matter of dealing with a “massive adjustment period.”

 

Grande emphasized her admiration for Erivo, saying, "I have so much respect for my sister, Cynthia, and I love her so much." She added that while playful edits are part of fandom, there is a delicate balance, cautioning against crossing the line.

 

• https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/news/ariana-grande-wicked-poster-art-cynthia-erivo-b2632434.html 
• https://variety.com/2024/film/columns/ariana-grande-cynthia-erivo-fan-edited-wicked-posters-offensive-meme-1236183632/ 
• https://www.today.com/popculture/movies/ariana-grande-wicked-poster-rcna176359 
• https://www.thedailybeast.com/ariana-grande-responds-to-wicked-fan-poster-controversy/ 
• https://www.forbes.com/sites/danidiplacido/2024/10/21/cynthia-erivos-wicked-poster-controversy-explained/ 

 

 

Opening image: Wicked Movie