Did Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo receive equal pay for Wicked? Universal responds

Universal Pictures has responded to swirling online speculation that Ariana Grande was paid significantly more than Cynthia Erivo for their roles in Wicked, the highly anticipated film adaptation of the $5 billion-grossing Broadway hit.

Wicked pay disparity rumors debunked

Rumors had emerged on social media, with claims that Grande, who stars as Glinda, earned $15 million, while Erivo, in the lead role of Elphaba, received only $1 million.

In a statement released to the media, a Universal spokesperson dismissed the claims as baseless.

"Reports of pay disparity between Cynthia and Ariana are completely false and based on internet fodder," the spokesperson said, adding that "the women received equal pay for their work on Wicked."

However, the studio did not disclose specific salary figures.

The rumors sparked intense debate online, with one viral post on X garnering over 11 million views and 120,000 likes.

Many fans expressed outrage at the alleged pay gap, particularly given Erivo's central role in the story.

Some described the rumored disparity as "diabolical" and "unfair."

Others defended the idea of Grande earning more, citing her larger fanbase and potential to draw audiences to theaters.

The leaked salary list also included figures for other cast members, with Michelle Yeoh and Jeff Goldblum reportedly earning $2 million each, while Jonathan Bailey and Ethan Slater were said to make $450,000 and $350,000, respectively.

Wicked is a box office hit

Despite the controversy, Wicked is making waves at the box office.

After a $112.5 million opening weekend in the U.S. and a global debut of $162.5 million, the film is setting records for a Broadway musical adaptation.

Its current global total stands at around $180 million, with analysts predicting a strong performance through Thanksgiving weekend.

Directed by Jon M. Chu, Wicked is one of the most expensive productions ever, with a combined two-part budget of $320 million before marketing.

The film's financial success may lead to additional bonuses for cast members, though Universal has yet to confirm any such arrangements.

As fans debate the allegations and Wicked continues to perform, Universal's denial seeks to quash rumors while keeping the focus on the movie's achievements.