Ariana Grande Joins ‘Wicked: For Good’ World Tour in Paris After Missing Brazil Premiere Due to Flight Issues

Ariana Grande illuminated the Paris premiere of "Wicked: For Good" on Friday, radiating glamour on the red carpet. The film's official Instagram later shared moments of the star, who embodies the effervescent witch Glinda, engaging with fans and celebrating her Grammy nomination for best pop duo/group performance, which she shares with co-star Cynthia Erivo.

Her presence in Paris came after a major hiccup in the film's promotional tour. A security issue with her private plane had forced Grande to cancel her appearance at the inaugural international premiere in São Paulo, Brazil, just days prior. In an emotional online post, she expressed her deep regret, explaining that exhaustive attempts by her team and Universal Pictures failed to secure alternative travel arrangements in time. This São Paulo event was designed to launch the studio's global promotional circuit for the musical sequel, which includes further stops in London on November 10 and Singapore on November 13.

The cancellation was a particularly bitter pill for the singer, whose 2019 album 'Thank U, Next' broke numerous streaming records, as it thwarted a much-anticipated reunion with her dedicated Brazilian following. She offered a heartfelt apology and asked for understanding, clarifying that her intense filming schedule ruled out any possibility of a rescheduled visit. She also pleaded with followers, stating, "Please don't wish danger on us. We did everything we could and I promise you no one is more upset than I am." Industry analyst Maria Flores commented, "For A-list stars, these logistical breakdowns are an occupational hazard, where a single transportation failure can dismantle an international marketing blitz planned down to the minute."

Grande's professional calendar is exceptionally full. She has recently completed work on "Fockers in Law," the newest chapter in the "Meet the Parents" franchise. Additionally, she provides a voice alongside Josh Gad in the animated feature "Oh, the Places You’ll Go!," another project helmed by her "Wicked" director Jon M. Chu. Beyond these, she is slated to appear in the thirteenth season of Ryan Murphy's celebrated anthology "American Horror Story," a series known for its chilling storylines and high-profile casts.

The excitement for "Wicked: For Good" is sky-high, riding the wave of its predecessor's historic performance. The 2024 movie "Wicked," which adapted the first part of the acclaimed 2003 stage musical by Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman, grossed more than $756 million globally, securing its place as the highest-grossing film adaptation of a Broadway musical ever. It garnered ten Oscar nominations, including for the coveted Best Picture award. Both Grande and Erivo, who plays the complex Elphaba, earned individual Academy Award nominations for their performances and continue to be prominent figures in the current awards season conversation.