Ariana Grande calls filming 'wicked new song' a 'long, emotional process'

Ariana Grande revealed the emotional process of filming Evil: For goodteasing a new song for Glinda as well as a big makeover for the character.

While appearing on DiversityGrande, 31, dropped by the Awards Circuit Podcast on Saturday, Jan. 11, revealing the filming of “For Good,” the iconic duet between Glinda and Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo). For the uninitiated, the song marks a pivotal moment for the characters of the upcoming film Evil continuation.

“Shooting 'For Good' was unlike anything I've ever experienced,” shared Grande. “It was such a long and emotional process. I kind of left my body. We shot it over the course of a week and it stayed with me. I haven't even seen the final cut yet because I'm not sure I'm ready to go through it all again.

Evil: For good there will also be a brand new song for Glinda written by the composer Stephen Schwartz about the movie.

Related: Ariana Grande credits Wicked's Cynthia Erivo for helping her 'heal'

Ariana Grande credits her evil character Cynthia Erivo with helping her “heal certain parts.” Grande, 31, and Erivo, 37, opened up about their friendship in an interview with The New York Times published Wednesday, Nov. 6. “I feel really inspired by her fierce ability to be true and protect herself,” (…)

“It's a defining moment in Glinda's journey,” reveals Grande. “It shows a side of her that we've never seen before. In the stage show, that transformation happens offstage. But in the movie, we get to see her make a decision that defines who she is. It's a privilege to sing this song and be the first Glinda, which revived it.

Glinda was originally played Kristin Chenoweth inside Evil on Broadway. Talking to DiversityGrande went on to reflect on her interpretation of the character, saying, “From the moment it was announced, I knew this role would live with me forever.”

She continued: “It's an honor, but it also carries so much weight. I wanted to do it justice. Glinda isn't just a character to me — she's a symbol of growth and love, and I wanted to give her everything I had.

Director John M. Chu, Evil is based on the Broadway musical and Gregory Maguire1995 novel of the same name. It follows the story of Elphaba, or the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, or Glinda the Good Witch, before and during. The Wizard of Oz as their relationship evolves from rival roommates to best friends, set against a backdrop of societal upheaval in the Land of Oz.

Erivo, in turn, also emerged as one of the sequel new songs in the December 2024 episode Diversity“Award Chatter” podcast.

“I collaborated on one of the new songs and it's so special to me,” she said at the time. “When we filmed it, the whole crew was crying. I hope the audience is ready – it's a song that speaks to the essence of Elphaba.

She continued, “We delve into the consequences of the characters' choices. The story is richer and the stakes are higher. It's not just a sequel; it's a transformation.”

Wicked is now in theaters and available to rent and purchase on digital platforms. Sequel titled Evil: For goodwill hit theaters on November 21.