Oscar-nominated stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo from the upcoming film adaptation of Wicked are set to perform at this year’s Oscars, as confirmed by The Hollywood Reporter. The pair is expected to open the show, although details about their song selection remain under wraps. Potential options include popular numbers like “Popular,” “Defying Gravity,” and “What Is This Feeling?,” possibly even a medley of these iconic songs.
The Academy has also lined up additional star-studded performances featuring artists like Doja Cat, Lisa from Blackpink, Queen Latifah, and Raye, all aimed at celebrating the artistry within the filmmaking community. This year’s Oscars will highlight both established legends and contemporary favorites during the telecast.
Recent reports suggest that producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan initially centered the show’s opening around a Wicked medley. Despite initial skepticism from Erivo regarding her participation, it appears that all parties have come together, potentially boosting viewership due to the film’s popularity and Grande and Erivo’s star power. The promotion of Wicked: For Good, the forthcoming sequel, adds further incentive for this high-profile performance.
However, the decision to feature performances of songs from Wicked—none of which are nominated for an Oscar this year—has sparked some controversy. Earlier in January, the Academy announced a pivot away from live performances of nominated songs to focus instead on the stories behind the nominated songwriters. This new approach may leave some songwriters feeling overlooked, as the performances featured will be from popular culture rather than formally recognized Oscar nominations.
Despite this contentious backdrop, the inclusion of Grande and Erivo’s performance reflects the Academy’s recognition of what resonates with audiences, acknowledging that popularity can sometimes eclipse technical nominations. Recall that just three years ago, the Oscars featured “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” from Encanto, which had not been nominated but became a cultural sensation. This trend speaks to the dynamic nature of the Oscars and its ability to adapt to the ever-evolving entertainment landscape.
This year’s Oscars promise to bring excitement and showcase the intersection of traditional awards with modern popular culture, ultimately offering viewers an engaging and memorable experience.