AceShowbiz - In a recent interview with the New York Times, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande opened up about their reactions to being cast in the upcoming "Wicked" movie. When asked about her feelings towards Grande's casting as Glinda, Erivo expressed her gratitude, saying, "Thank goodness, because it was not the two ladies that I was auditioning with."

Grande mirrored Erivo's sentiments, recalling her own relief upon learning that they would be playing the titular roles. "Thank God," she said. "I think that was one of my most cherished parts of this experience: I felt held and like I had a friend every step of the way."

The actresses have developed a close friendship during the production of "Wicked," often spending their days off together shopping, getting tattoos, and simply enjoying each other's company. Grande credits Erivo with helping her grow as a person, fostering a sense of self-acceptance that she lacked before.

Erivo reciprocated the admiration, expressing how Grande has helped her believe in herself and her dreams. "I don't think it was up until I met her that I was like, 'Oh, I think I can have what I want in this lifetime, and I can have it in my way,'" Erivo said.

However, Erivo also shaded the other actresses who had auditioned for the role of Glinda, saying, "Thank goodness, [Grande was cast] because it was not the two ladies that I was auditioning with." Grande reacted with surprise, exclaiming, "Oh my God!"

Erivo went on to explain her belief that black women have historically been underrepresented in the role of Elphaba in "Wicked". "If they have [been considered], they haven't gotten the role, and if they do, they usually are the alternate or first cover," she said. "There's only one woman I know on record that has done it on the West End [in London]."

The casting of Erivo and Grande has been widely praised, with fans eagerly anticipating the release of the movie on November 22. However, Erivo recently voiced her displeasure with a fan-edited version of the movie's poster that obscured her eyes. She described the action as "deeply hurtful" and an attempt to "erase" her from the image.