As people eagerly rush to the theaters to go see BadAriana Grande is giving some fans something else to latch on to as they head into the new movie.
In a new interview with Gay TimesGrande revealed that she believes there may be some truth to the “Gelphie” fandom – a community Bad die-hards who believe that lead characters Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Grande) may have been more than friends.
“Whether it's romantic or platonic, or you know… maybe Glinda is a little bit in the closet,” Grande said. “But if there was time? You know, you never know! Give him some time! I mean, it's just true love. And I think that goes beyond sexuality, it's just a deep security within each other. And that's probably why they send it.”
Erivo — who identifies as queer — agreed with Grande's sentiment, adding that her portrayal of Elphaba definitely experiences a sense of sexual fluidity. “I think Elfie…goes where the wind blows,” she said. “I think he loves Glinda, I think he loves love. And I don't think there's anything wrong with celebrating the deep connection they both have… it's a relationship, it's true love.”
Grande isn't the only Glinda actress who thinks the Good Witch might be queer. In a comment under an Instagram post sharing Grande's quote about her character, Broadway star Kristin Chenoweth, who starred in the role in 2003, said: “I thought about it way back when….”
The news comes on the heels of the film's theatrical release, prompting both of its stars to reflect on their journeys to the big screen on their Instagram accounts. In her post, Erivo thanked the team that made the film possible, singling out Grande in particular. “I love you. You are the truest, kindest, human being,” she wrote. “It has been an honor to share this life experience with you.”
Grande, meanwhile, took a moment to thank her fans for their “patience” with her while she “disappeared” into the role of Glinda. “I know it's been hard for all of you. I want to thank you for your fierce protection, your passion and your ability to see and love me as I grow with all of you,” she wrote in her Instagram Stories.
Watch the clip of Grande and Erivo talking about the “Gelphie” theory below:
