From the Broadway Stage to the movie theaters. Wicked, one of the most popular musicals of all time, hit the theaters on Nov. 22. It stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and famous pop singer, Ariana Grande, as Glinda. 

Wicked was originally a 1995 best seller adult novel by Gregory McGuire, which was then turned into a Broadway play in 2003. The debut of Wicked starred Idina Menzel as Elphaba, and Kristin Chenoweth as Glinda. 

With the release of Wicked in the movie theaters, there have been controversies with casting and trends including mimicking the cast. People on social media have been debating for months on whether or not Ariana Grande was the best casting for Glinda. Some people have said that Dove Cameron or Amanda Seyfried would have been a better fit for the role. 

Sophomore, Natalie Haulenbeck, said “I think Ariana Grande was actually the best choice for Glinda, she really became the character.” 

Talia Crismale Stated “I think the movie was a total rip off of the musical, the musical was so much better, but Ariana Grande made it better, she was the perfect choice for Glinda.”

Ariella Murdacco Stated “The movie was pretty good, the only thing I didn’t like was the casting. Ariana wasn’t the right fit for Glinda.” 

Trends have become viral escalating over social media making fun of the two main cast members: Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo for being dramatic in their interviews, such as crying during simple questions. 

When asked how they felt about the interviews, Crismale said “I think it’s embarrassing how much they cry.” 

Overall there have been mixed opinions about the recent release of Wicked between the casting, the interviews, and the controversy.