Ariana Grande Defends Her Voice and Career: “I’m Proud of Who I’m Becoming”

The “Wicked” Star Opens Up About Criticism of Her Voice, Her Journey in Hollywood, and Overcoming Public Scrutiny

Ariana Grande, alongside her Wicked co-star Cynthia Erivo, graced the cover of Vanity Fair and addressed recent critiques regarding her speaking voice. Fans noticed a lighter, breathier tone during and after filming the two-part Wicked musical, where Grande portrays Glinda the Good. Grande has spent nearly two years working on the film, fully immersing herself in the role.

In response to critics, Grande explained, “Some people don’t understand the demands of transforming your voice, whether for singing, adopting a new dialect, or creating a character’s voice.” She added that male actors often receive praise for similar transformations, while women face undue scrutiny. “When a male actor does it, it’s met with admiration. There might be jokes, but it’s after the acclaim: ‘Oh, he was so committed to the role.’ It’s part of being a woman in this industry, constantly under a microscope.”

The criticism intensified when a viral clip from Grande’s appearance on Penn Badgley’s “Podcrushed” podcast showed her shifting vocal registers. The singer responded via TikTok, clarifying: “I intentionally change my vocal placement depending on how much singing I’m doing. I’ve always done this.”

Grande reiterated her pride in the work she’s put into her voice for the role. “I gave 100% of myself to this project, and that includes my physicality and my voice. I’m proud of that, so I felt the need to stand up for it.”

This isn’t the first time Grande has faced public scrutiny. Reflecting on her career, she shared how it’s been challenging to manage the shifting public perceptions. “I went from being the funny, approachable redhead on Nickelodeon to having one too many hits, and suddenly I was labeled an ‘evil diva.’ Then, more events happened, and I became seen as a hero or a victim.”

Grande expressed how difficult it has been to deal with such extreme opinions throughout her career. “The tabloids have been trying to tear me down since I was 19. But I’m 31 now, and I’m proud of who I’m becoming. I may not be perfect, but I know I’m a good person, and I refuse to let these negative stories destroy my life or my sense of self.”

To read Ariana Grande’s full interview, visit Vanity Fair. Wicked hits theaters on Nov. 22.