Oscars 2025 Countdown: Ariana Grande’s nomination sparks backlash

As the 2025 Academy Awards approach, Ariana Grande has emerged as one of the most talked-about stars of the season. With a Best Supporting Actress nomination for her portrayal of Glinda in Wicked, the pop icon-turned-actress has seamlessly blended character embodiment with personal branding. Her awards season presence has been nothing short of theatrical, embracing a method dressing approach that keeps Wicked in the public consciousness while reinforcing her transformation into one of Hollywood’s most intriguing fashion figures.

This article delves into her journey, from her performance in Wicked to her red carpet fashion evolution and what we can expect at the 2025 Oscars.

Ariana Grande as Glinda: A Role She Was Born to Play

Grande’s portrayal of Glinda, the ever-charming yet complex witch from Wicked, has been met with widespread acclaim. The role, which requires both strong acting and impeccable vocal ability, seemed tailor-made for her. As a powerhouse soprano with years of Broadway admiration, Grande approached Glinda with both reverence and innovation, ensuring she honored the character while bringing her own unique charm to the role.

Glinda, often seen as the “good witch” in contrast to Elphaba’s misunderstood darkness, is more than just a bubbly, pink-clad sorceress. She undergoes significant character development, grappling with themes of privilege, morality, and the consequences of her choices. Grande’s performance has been praised for adding depth to the character, making her more than just a supporting role but a key player in the film’s emotional core.

Method Dressing: The Fashion Evolution of Ariana Grande’s Awards Season

If there’s one thing Ariana Grande has done flawlessly this awards season, it’s maintaining a consistent and theatrical fashion narrative.

From the moment Wicked promo began, it was clear that Grande was fully embracing her inner Glinda—not just on screen but on the red carpet as well. While some celebrities opt for sleek reinventions of their personal style during awards season, Grande committed to a full-fledged theme, mirroring Glinda’s aesthetic through pastel color palettes, voluminous gowns, and vintage couture choices.

Let’s break down her most iconic awards season looks:

1. The Oscars Nominees Dinner: A Vintage Saint Laurent Moment

For the Oscars Nominees Dinner, Grande stunned in a vintage Yves Saint Laurent gown from the Fall 1991 haute couture collection. The black chiffon dress, adorned with soft pink feathers and a bow-trimmed bodice, was originally worn by French actress Catherine Deneuve at the 1993 Oscars.

By choosing an archival piece, Grande made a statement—not only was she embracing old Hollywood glamour, but she was also reinforcing the idea that Glinda’s aesthetic could be both playful and elegant.

2. The Critics Choice Awards: A Dior Couture Masterpiece

At the Critics Choice Awards, Grande opted for a breathtaking Dior couture gown. The structured silhouette and ethereal fabric choice reflected Glinda’s whimsical yet sophisticated persona. While some critics have argued that her approach to fashion this season has leaned heavily into marketing rather than personal expression, this particular look proved that method dressing can be both strategic and artistic.

3. The SAG Awards: A Giambattista Valli Fairytale

For the Screen Actors Guild Awards, Grande took the theme one step further, donning a custom Giambattista Valli Haute Couture creation. The powder pink dress featured layers of tulle and delicate embellishments, making her look straight out of Oz.

While some might find her commitment to Pink excessive, there’s no denying the impact—she has successfully kept Wicked at the forefront of every red carpet conversation, ensuring that her role remains a focal point of the awards season buzz.

4. The BAFTAs: A Minimalist Shift?

At the BAFTAs, however, Grande surprised fans by stepping away—slightly—from the Glinda theme. She appeared in an icy blue custom Atelier Versace gown with sleek tailoring, signaling a potential shift in her red carpet approach. While still ethereal and princess-like, this look suggested that she might be preparing for a grander reveal at the Oscars.

The Impact of Ariana Grande’s Fashion Choices

Grande’s deliberate and theatrical approach to red carpet fashion this season has sparked discussions about the role of costume in character promotion and personal branding.

Some industry insiders have praised her for staying committed to the Wicked aesthetic, as it keeps the film and her performance relevant in an increasingly competitive awards season. Others, however, have critiqued the method-dressing approach, arguing that it places marketing over genuine self-expression.

Regardless of where one stands on the debate, there’s no denying that Grande has successfully turned herself into a fashion spectacle. And in an era where red carpets are often dominated by risk-averse styling, her commitment to a cohesive narrative sets her apart.

Grande’s Perspective: Beyond Fashion and into the Role of Glinda

Beyond fashion, Grande has spoken openly about her deep connection to Glinda. In interviews, she has emphasized the importance of portraying the character with authenticity, particularly in her dynamic with Elphaba, played by Cynthia Erivo.

Their chemistry is said to be one of the strongest elements of the film, with their friendship and eventual ideological differences forming the backbone of Wicked‘s emotional weight.

Grande has also revealed that all the songs in the film were performed live on set, adding an extra layer of rawness to the performances. This decision was meant to preserve the musical’s theatricality while enhancing the authenticity of each moment.

Oscars 2025: Will Ariana Grande Take Home the Trophy?

With all eyes on the Best Supporting Actress category, the question remains: Can Ariana Grande secure her first Oscar?

The competition is fierce, but her nomination alone is a monumental achievement, proving that she has successfully transitioned from pop sensation to serious actress. Her ability to balance a high-profile music career with a role as demanding as Glinda is no small feat.

Industry analysts suggest that her chances of winning hinge on a few key factors:

• The momentum of Wicked: If the film continues to generate positive critical and audience reception, she may ride that wave to victory.
• The Academy’s perspective on her transformation: Voters often favor actors who step outside their comfort zone, and Grande’s evolution into a major film actress could work in her favor.
• The strength of her performance against her competitors: While fashion and marketing play a role in awards season, the final decision always comes down to performance.

What Will She Wear to the Oscars?

One of the most anticipated questions leading up to the 2025 Academy Awards isn’t just whether Grande will win—it’s what she will wear on Hollywood’s biggest night.

Given her track record this season, there are two potential scenarios:

1. She doubles down on the Glinda theme, opting for a pink, voluminous, fairytale-esque gown, possibly from Giambattista Valli or Valentino.
2. She surprises everyone with a completely unexpected look, pivoting to a sleek, modern design that signals the end of her method-dressing era.

Either way, her Oscar appearance is bound to be one of the most talked-about fashion moments of the night.

Final Thoughts: Ariana Grande’s Legacy Beyond Wicked

No matter the outcome of the Oscars, Ariana Grande’s journey this season has cemented her status as more than just a pop star—she is now a formidable presence in Hollywood.

Her ability to blend music, acting, and fashion into a seamless narrative is a testament to her artistry and marketing savvy. Whether she wins or not, her commitment to both her role and her brand has ensured that Wicked remains one of the most memorable films of the year.

And as the countdown to the Oscars continues, one thing is certain: Ariana Grande is ready for her next act.