Ethan Slater and Lena Waite’s reactions to Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s ‘Wicked’ Oscars Performance that stole the show

The 97th Academy Awards were nothing short of spectacular, featuring a night filled with cinematic excellence, heartfelt speeches, and unforgettable performances. However, one of the most talked-about moments was the breathtaking performance by Wicked stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. Their powerful duet set the tone for a night of celebration, leaving fellow stars, including Ethan Slater and Lena Waithe, visibly moved.

With Wicked being one of the most highly anticipated films of 2024, its presence at the Oscars was a testament to its cultural impact. From spellbinding vocals to emotional audience reactions, let’s break down the magic behind their performance, the heartwarming responses it sparked, and why this moment will be remembered for years to come.

Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivo Take the Stage

As the Oscars kicked off, all eyes were on Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, who graced the stage in a performance that celebrated the legacy of Wicked and the timeless magic of Oz. Their song selection was a love letter to musical theater fans, and their stunning vocals captivated the audience from the very first note.

A Tribute to Oz: The Songs That Defined the Moment

Grande and Erivo’s performance was a carefully curated medley featuring some of the most beloved songs from Wicked and The Wizard of Oz:

• “Over the Rainbow”—a” nod to the classic 1939 film, performed by Grande in a moment of pure nostalgia.
• “Home”—a” touching tribute to The Wiz, beautifully sung by Erivo.
• “Defying Gravity”—the” emotional highlight of the night, with both stars delivering a showstopping duet.

Their harmonization was nothing short of breathtaking, and the audience was visibly enchanted. The performance wasn’t just about vocals—it was a full theatrical experience, complete with stunning visuals and emotional storytelling.

Ethan Slater’s Heartfelt Reaction to Ariana Grande’s Performance

Among the many emotional responses to Grande and Erivo’s performance, one stood out: Ethan Slater, who plays Boq in the upcoming Wicked film and is also Ariana Grande’s partner.

Throughout the performance, Slater was seen beaming with admiration, his eyes fixed on the stage. Fans quickly took to social media, noting how his reaction mirrored the way someone looks at a person they truly admire.

A Relationship Rooted in Mutual Respect

Slater and Grande’s relationship has been in the public eye, with many speculating about their connection on and off set. However, his pure and genuine response to her performance reinforced that their bond goes beyond Hollywood headlines.

In a pre-Oscars interview, Slater expressed excitement about Wicked’s moment in the spotlight:

“Are you kidding me? Mainly, I just want to watch it. Them singing live is something truly special.”

And when the time came, he did exactly that—watching with admiration and pride.

Lena Waithe’s Supportive Energy Lights Up the Oscars

Another touching reaction came from Lena Waithe, the Emmy-winning writer, actress, and producer known for her dedication to representation and storytelling in Hollywood.

A Champion of Diversity in Film

Waithe has long been a vocal advocate for diversity in storytelling, and her presence at the Oscars signified the importance of inclusion in the entertainment industry.

During Grande and Erivo’s performance, she was seen clapping enthusiastically and even wiping away tears. Fans were quick to note that her reaction symbolized the broader impact of the performance—not just as a musical moment but as a cultural milestone.

Michelle Yeoh Moved to Tears

Another emotional moment came from Academy Award-winning actress Michelle Yeoh, who was visibly moved during the “Defying Gravity” segment. The camera captured her wiping away tears, a testament to the performance’s emotional depth.

Yeoh’s reaction further highlighted how powerful storytelling in music can resonate across generations and cultures, reinforcing why musicals like Wicked continue to inspire audiences worldwide.

Why This Performance Was More Than Just Music

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s Oscar performance wasn’t just about showcasing their incredible vocals—it was a defining moment for Broadway-to-film adaptations. It proved that musicals can command attention at the Oscars, solidifying their place as cinematic masterpieces.

A First Look at Wicked

For many, this was the first true glimpse at the magic that awaits in Wicked. With the film set to release later this year, the performance served as a live teaser for fans eagerly awaiting its arrival.

• Grande’s Glinda and Erivo’s Elphaba displayed unmatched chemistry, hinting at the emotional depth they’ll bring to the big screen.
• The performance reinforced why Wicked has remained one of Broadway’s most beloved musicals, capturing the essence of its themes—friendship, ambition, and acceptance.

The Fashion That Told a Story

No Oscar performance is complete without show-stopping fashion, and Grande and Erivo did not disappoint. Their wardrobe choices were carefully designed to reflect the world of Wicked and the broader Oz universe.

• Ariana Grande’s red gown was a stunning tribute to Dorothy’s ruby slippers.
• Cynthia Erivo’s emerald ensemble paid homage to Elphaba’s iconic green complexion.
• The color contrast between the two was a visual representation of their characters’ dynamic, a clever nod to the film’s storyline.

Grande even commented on her fashion choices, stating:

“We wanted it to be a tribute to Oz, and to the beautiful women and witches who have come before us.”

Social Media Reactions: Fans Can’t Get Enough

Unsurprisingly, the internet exploded with reactions following the performance. Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram were flooded with:

• Clips of Ethan Slater watching with pure admiration
• Lena’s enthusiastic applause
• Michelle Yeoh’s emotional response
• Side-by-side comparisons to Broadway’s original performances

One viral tweet read:

“Find someone who looks at you the way Ethan Slater looks at Ariana Grande after she sings ‘Defying Gravity.’”

Another fan posted:

“Lena Waithe clapping for Ariana and Cynthia is the energy we all need in our lives.”

Final Thoughts: Why This Oscars Moment Will Be Remembered

The 2025 Academy Awards had plenty of memorable moments, but Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s Wicked performance set the bar for future Oscar musical numbers.

With emotional reactions from fellow stars, a glimpse into one of the most anticipated films of the year, and a performance that honored the legacy of Oz, this was more than just a song—it was a moment of pure magic.

As we look forward to the release of Wicked, one thing is certain: this performance has already proven that the film is set to be one of the biggest cultural events of the year.

Whether you were moved by the music, inspired by the representation, or simply in awe of the talent on stage, one thing is undeniable—Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo have officially defied gravity at the Oscars.