THE RUNDOWN
Cynthia Erivo was asked about her relationship with Ariana Grande in a new interview.
The Wicked star said that she thinks people rarely see close female friendship.
Grande has also commented on their viral moments while doing press for the films.
During the press tour forWickedandWicked: For Good, starsCynthia ErivoandAriana Grandewere often side-by-side for seemingly endless press events and red carpets. A few moments they shared on camera during this time went viral and it was noted how close they were while often in physical contact. Some fans even suggested there might be a romance brewing, though Grande is in a relationship with actorEthan Slaterand Erivo is datingLena Waithe.
In a new interview withStylist, Erivo addressed the rumors, reflecting on how friendship between women is often perceived on the outside.
"At first, I think people didn't understand how it was possible for two women to be friends—close—and not lovers," she shared. "I've never really spoken about this, but there was this strange fascination with the two of us, where people either thought we were putting it on for the cameras or that we were lovers."
The Broadway star continued, "I think it's because there's such little conversation around platonic female friendship that is deep and real, even though it exists everywhere. We're not used to seeing it on camera, in front of people. A relationship where people are connected sometimes just makes people uncomfortable; we aren't taught that those relationships are good for us."
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Grande has discussed their connection in the past as well, including hand-holding on Amy Poehler'sGood Hangpodcast.
"I do, I do. I channel a lot of energy through my hands. And so I'm always holding a hand," she said. "I'm always, like, squeezing a something, as you've learned. I'm always reaching for something sometimes."
She added, "Yeah, I like to channel support and energy... I didn't even notice that it was a thing about me until that thing happened."
Grande was referring to an interview withOutwhere she grabbed Erivo's finger during an odd moment when they were both a bit confused about how to respond.
"Yeah, because I didn't know what the fuck was going on," Grande admitted. "I just wanted to be supportive. I was like,oh my God.And it felt sweet. It felt beautiful. And it was beautiful."
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