Ariana Grande has tested positive for COVID-19 just as the promotional campaign for ‘Wicked: For Good’, the second chapter of Jon M. Chu’s cinematic adaptation of the beloved novel and Broadway show, entered its final leg.

The pop icon, who reprises her role as Glinda the Good Witch alongside Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba, announced the diagnosis on November 20, 2025, sharing a black-and-white snapshot from her November 18 appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, captioned “moments before Covid.”

Setbacks Hit Both Leading Ladies

Grande’s illness marks the latest disruption for the ambitious global press tour. Earlier, Erivo was forced to withdraw from several events after losing her voice, while Grande herself skipped appearances on The Kelly Clarkson Show and multiple panel discussions. Universal Studios confirmed that all upcoming promotional commitments have been paused indefinitely as both stars recuperate. The studio is reportedly prioritising their well-being over maintaining an aggressive marketing schedule.

Recurring Challenge During ‘Wicked’ Productions

This is not the first time COVID-19 has disrupted the franchise. During the filming of the first Wicked movie in 2024, both Grande and Erivo contracted the virus separately, leading to shooting delays. Their shared health struggles have once again intertwined their off-screen journeys, echoing the intertwined destinies of Glinda and Elphaba on screen. Devoted fans, who affectionately dub the duo “Glariana” or “EriGrande”, have expressed concern, though both actors are expected to recover fully.

Release Nears as Promotional Uncertainty Grows

‘Wicked: For Good’ is scheduled to release in theatres on November 21, and anticipation has been immense. Part One, released earlier this year, was a critical and commercial success, with critics applauding Grande’s transition from pop superstar to movie-musical lead. Universal had prepared an elaborate press push with international red carpets and media events, but these plans remain on hold. While virtual interviews remain an option, insiders believe the studio hopes to resume in-person promotions once both actresses are well.

Concerns Over Grande’s Physical Transformation

Grande’s diagnosis has sparked renewed conversation surrounding her health. Her noticeably slimmer appearance at the 2025 BAFTA Film Awards had already fuelled online speculation about her well-being. Sources close to the artist previously revealed that her demanding work schedule had taken a toll on her physically and mentally.

Fans have also connected her physical changes to her long-publicised battles with PTSD, depression, and anxiety, struggles she has openly discussed since the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017 and the death of ex-boyfriend Mac Miller.

Public Scrutiny Intensifies

Social media comments have ranged from expressions of concern to speculation about underlying health issues. Grande has previously addressed such commentary, urging the public to avoid judging others’ bodies. In a 2023 TikTok video, she reminded fans that “healthy can look different” and revealed that a past period when she appeared fuller was actually her unhealthiest stage, marked by poor eating habits and medication challenges.

A Redditor commented, “Ariana genuinely looks sick, her face looks hollow, her body looks frail, and she moves like she’s made of glass.” An Instagram user wrote, “Some people suffer in silence, you never know what they’re going through.”

What Comes Next?

Universal has not yet announced revised press dates. The pace of both actresses’ recovery will guide next steps, though industry experts predict the studio will eventually resume large-scale promotions given the franchise’s cultural impact and massive fanbase. For now, the spotlight remains on the health and privacy of its two leading stars and on the anticipation building ahead of the film’s release.

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