AceShowbiz - Kristin Chenoweth has come to the defense of the "Wicked" movie after a petition by the hate group One Million Moms. The petition calls for a boycott of the film, claiming that it "pushes the LGBTQ agenda on families, particularly children."

Chenoweth, who originated the role of Glinda in the Broadway musical, responded to the petition on Instagram, writing, "Everyone knows the 'one million Moms' are a mere few hundred. Maybe. It's called entertainment. Artistry. I am a Christian woman [and] originated the role of Glinda and all the silliness that these women spew out of hate."

She added, "For anyone who wants to see girl power, then go so WICKED. Onstage or in a movie theater."

Author Gregory Maguire, who wrote the book that inspired the Wicked musical, has explained that the chemistry between Glinda and Elphaba was intentional. "That was intentional, and it was modest and restrained and refined in such a way that one could imagine that one of those two young women had felt more than the other and had not wanted to say it," he told Them.

Ariana Grande, who plays Glinda in the movie, has also responded to fans who think the character is queer-coded. "Whether it's romantic or platonic, Glinda might be a little in the closet," she told Gay Times. "You never know."

Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba, added, "I think Elphie is… She goes wherever the wind goes. I think she loves Glinda, I think she loves love. And I don't think there's anything wrong with celebrating the deep connection the both of them have. They do have a real relationship. It is true love."

While both Erivo and Grande are outspoken LGBTQ allies, Grande has received some online criticism for queerbaiting. However, she maintains that she has always been supportive of the community.

Despite the controversy, "Wicked" has been a box office success, grossing over $450 million worldwide. The film has also been praised for its diverse cast and its message of tolerance.