Video of Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo from the ongoing press tour Wicked: for good has rapidly gained attention on social media platforms, sparking debate among audiences. The clip, which shows the two co-stars engaging in extremely affectionate gestures, has been described as ‘very touchy and irritating’ by many users, with the internet divided over the nature of their interaction.

In a viral video, Cynthia Erivo is seen holding Ariana Grande’s hand and expressing her admiration for her, a moment that brings Grande to tears. Erivo then wiped away Grande’s tears, a gesture that immediately sparked commentary online. Commentators have noted that such conversations have been a frequent occurrence throughout the press tour for the upcoming film.

Some social media users have strongly criticized the behavior of both. One user commented, “No parody. These two look seriously troubled. Not just anorexia or whatever is going on. But touchy-feely, tears and every weird thing that happens in there is seriously disturbing.”

Others have speculated that press attendance may have been reduced due to online reaction. Another user commented, “The real reason Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande won’t give interviews anymore.” Additional videos and comments followed, with some viewers saying, “The studio had to put a stop to this mess…whatever it is.”

The repeated use of the phrase ‘too touchy and cringe’ has punctuated much of the debate, indicating continued uneasiness among some viewers. The video also shows Erivo adjusting Grande’s jewelry and comforting her, prompting viewers to further investigate the authenticity and appropriateness of these displays.

Reactions to the two’s dynamics include concern and confusion. One user wrote, “The host is like: What am I watching right now?” Others have cited old videos to demonstrate that such behavior is not new, with long-term patterns of close interactions observed.

Despite the criticism, some voices on social media have defended both actors, saying “I like Cynthia Erivo, but all this worrying is getting weird. Ariana Grande is no poor, porcelain doll.” The pair’s continued presence during media appearances has also been highlighted by users such as lisasonlywife, with another commenting, “This is literally how Ariana Grande and Cynthia look every time I see them on my timeline”.

Wicked: for good Was released on November 21, 2025. The film stars Erivo as Elphaba and Grande as Glinda, alongside a cast including Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh and Jeff Goldblum. The story follows Elphaba’s disappearance and Glinda’s rise to power, with their friendship central to the film’s narrative. The press tour and related online discourse ahead of its arrival in theaters continues to garner significant attention.