Oscars 2025: Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivo Deliver show-stopping ‘Defying Gravity’ performance
"Wicked" stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo brought it home as they opened the 2025 Oscars with a medley of songs from the "Wizard of Oz" cinematic universe.
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, stars of the highly anticipated film adaptation of Wicked, delivered a special performance at the 97th Academy Awards on Sunday night. The ceremony took place at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, with Conan O'Brien hosting for the first time.
Grande and Erivo opened the ceremony with “Defying Gravity,” from the soundtrack of Wicked. The stars also paid tribute to “The Wizard of Oz,” with Grande singing “Over the Rainbow,” and “The Wiz,” with Erivo singing “Home.” The musical adaptation is nominated for 10 Academy Awards, including best picture, actress for Erivo and supporting actress for Grande.
Oscars 2025 live performances
In addition to Grande and Erivo, the Oscars will showcase performances by other prominent artists such as Doja Cat, Lisa of Blackpink, Queen Latifah, and Raye. They are slated to deliver acts honoring the film community and its legendary figures. Notably, Queen Latifah will pay tribute to the illustrious Quincy Jones, while a special segment will celebrate James Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson.
This year's Oscars have sparked discussions due to the decision to forego live performances of the Best Original Song nominees. Instead, the ceremony will focus on storytelling about the composers behind these songs. The inclusion of a Wicked number, whose songs were ineligible for Best Original Song consideration as they originate from the Broadway production, has added to the debate.
This situation mirrors the 2022 Oscars, where “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” from Encanto was performed despite not being nominated, though it supplemented rather than replaced performances of nominated songs.
Ariana Grande's vocal transformation
In related news, Ariana Grande has revealed that her role as Glinda in Wicked has permanently altered her voice. In a recent interview, she discussed how the rigorous vocal training for the role transformed her vocal cords both technically and physically, leading to improved vocal health.
The 2025 Oscars promise an evening of unforgettable performances, with Grande and Erivo's Wicked medley being a highlight of Hollywood's most prestigious night.