Ariana Grande recently shared a heartwarming moment with her beloved grandmother, Marjorie Grande, as they attended a screening of Wicked, the highly anticipated film adaptation of the popular musical. The outing took place in Boca Raton, Florida, where Ariana grew up, and it was a particularly special occasion given that Marjorie just celebrated her 99th birthday in October.
In a series of posts on Instagram, Ariana documented their trip to the movies, capturing the joy of her grandmother as she watched her granddaughter portray Glinda, the iconic “good witch.” The video featured Marjorie beaming with pride during Glinda’s standout musical number, “Popular,” while the family held hands in a touching display of togetherness. Ariana’s brother, Frankie Grande, also joined them for this memorable outing, highlighting the strong family bonds that have always been a cornerstone of Ariana’s life.
Marjorie Grande has witnessed the evolution of Glinda’s character on screen since she was just 13 years old when The Wizard of Oz premiered in 1939. This rich history makes her connection to the character particularly poignant. Over the decades, she has seen numerous portrayals of Glinda and now has the unique experience of watching her own granddaughter take on this beloved role.
The Grande family matriarch has lived through every adaptation of Frank L. Baum’s Oz novels, culminating in Ariana’s performance in Wicked, which also stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba. The film is poised to introduce a new generation to the enchanting world of Oz while honoring its storied past. Marjorie’s presence at the screening serves as a reminder of how these stories transcend time and generations.
In addition to her cinematic contributions, Marjorie recently made history by becoming the oldest artist ever to chart on the Billboard Hot 100 with her feature on Ariana’s track “Ordinary Things” from her latest album, Eternal Sunshine. This remarkable achievement further cements her legacy within both the music and film industries.
Ariana has often shared insights about her close relationship with Marjorie, affectionately referring to her as “Nonna.” Their bond is evident not only in their public appearances but also in their private moments. Marjorie’s wisdom is captured in Ariana’s music; she offers heartfelt advice in Eternal Sunshine, sharing timeless insights that resonate with listeners. In one notable piece of advice, she urges, “Never go to bed without kissing goodnight,” emphasizing the importance of love and connection.
Ariana’s dedication to honoring her grandmother extends beyond family gatherings and social media posts. She has frequently brought Marjorie as her date to various events, including award shows and red carpet appearances. Their close-knit relationship showcases not just familial love but also mutual respect and admiration for each other’s accomplishments.
As Wicked prepares for its release, anticipation continues to build around Ariana’s portrayal of Glinda. Early reviews praise her performance as both charming and powerful, with many fans expressing excitement over how she brings a fresh take to this iconic character. Critics have noted that Ariana’s rendition of “Popular” is poised to become a standout moment in the film, showcasing her vocal prowess and comedic timing.
With such a rich legacy behind them—Marjorie’s nearly century-long experience with Oz and Ariana’s burgeoning career—the Grande family exemplifies how art can connect generations. As they continue to navigate their respective journeys in entertainment, their story serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of family ties and shared experiences.
Ariana Grande’s recent outing with her grandmother at the Wicked screening is more than just a day at the movies; it symbolizes a celebration of love, legacy, and the enduring magic of storytelling. As they laughed and sang along together, it was clear that this moment would be cherished for years to come—a testament to their bond and the timeless tales that have shaped their lives.
READ MORE: