Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivo Dazzle at the Oscars with a Show-Stopping Duet
The 96th Academy Awards opened in spectacular fashion as Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo took the stage for an unforgettable musical performance.
The duo, set to star as Glinda and Elphaba in the highly anticipated film adaptation of Wicked, delivered a stunning medley of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” “Home,” and “Defying Gravity”—a tribute to classic musical theater infused with modern vocal mastery.
A Magical Blend of Voices and Emotion
From the very first note, the audience was mesmerized. Grande, known for her ethereal vocals and pop prowess, harmonized seamlessly with Erivo, a Tony-winning powerhouse celebrated for her commanding stage presence.
Their combined performance was nothing short of breathtaking, weaving together themes of dreams, resilience, and empowerment—a perfect fit for Hollywood’s biggest night.
Dressed in elegant ensembles reminiscent of their Wicked characters, the two artists not only showcased their vocal talent but also gave fans a taste of the chemistry and emotional depth they will bring to the upcoming film.
The performance struck a nostalgic chord, honoring the legacy of musical storytelling while offering a fresh, modern interpretation.
Conan O’Brien Brings the Laughs
Adding to the night’s entertainment, host Conan O’Brien delivered a masterclass in comedy, blending his signature wit with sharp observations about Hollywood culture.
His humorous commentary on red carpet fashion and industry trends had the audience in stitches, proving once again why he remains one of the most beloved personalities in entertainment.
A particularly memorable moment came when Adam Sandler made an unexpected appearance, joining O’Brien on stage for a comedic exchange about the Oscars’ ever-evolving dress code.
Their lighthearted banter quickly went viral, with fans flooding social media with memes and clips celebrating the duo’s hilarious take on formal wear vs. comfort wear in Hollywood.
An Unforgettable Tribute to Wicked
Grande and Erivo’s duet was more than just an opening act—it was a statement performance that set the tone for the night.
By blending classic melodies with a nod to the future of musical cinema, they paid homage to The Wizard of Oz, The Wiz, and Wicked all in one seamless medley.
Critics and fans alike praised the grandeur and depth of the performance, noting how it transcended the typical award show routine and redefined expectations for live musical moments at the Oscars.
Social Media Buzz & Fan Reactions
As soon as the performance ended, social media erupted with reactions. Fans praised the duo’s vocal chemistry, emotional delivery, and sheer star power, with many calling it the best Oscars opening in years.
The hashtags #ArianaAndCynthia, #WickedTheMovie, and #OscarsMagic quickly began trending, with viewers expressing excitement for the film’s release later this year.
Even industry veterans weighed in, with Broadway legends and Hollywood directors alike applauding the artistry and execution of the performance. Many speculated that this Oscars moment would go down in history as one of the greatest musical tributes ever showcased on the Academy stage.
A Historic Night for Music & Film
Grande and Erivo’s performance wasn’t just about honoring the past—it was a glimpse into the future of musical theater in film. As Wicked prepares to hit the big screen, their electrifying duet reminded audiences why musical adaptations remain a cornerstone of cinematic excellence.
With an evening that balanced humor, heartfelt tributes, and exhilarating performances, this year’s Oscars proved that Hollywood still knows how to deliver magic. Thanks to Grande and Erivo’s powerhouse vocals, O’Brien’s comedic genius, and surprise moments from fan-favorite stars, the night was one to remember.