Ariana Grande, the chart-topping pop sensation, has recently revealed a surprising shift in her artistic aspirations. While she has undoubtedly cemented her status as a global music icon, Grande has now set her sights on the world of musical theater, specifically her upcoming role in the highly anticipated film adaptation of "Wicked." In a candid interview, the 31-year-old artist has expressed her desire to keep acting at the forefront of her future endeavors, signaling a profound transformation in her creative journey.

Embracing Her Theatrical Roots: Ariana Grande's Homecoming to Broadway

Reconnecting with Her Theatrical Roots

Ariana Grande's journey in the entertainment industry began on the stage, with her early roles in the musical "13: The Musical" and her breakout performance as Cat Valentine on the Nickelodeon series "Victorious." Now, as she prepares to take on the iconic role of Glinda the Good Witch in the "Wicked" film adaptation, Grande is embracing her theatrical roots and expressing a deep desire to explore more dramatic and comedic roles. "Reconnecting with this part of myself who started in musical theater, and who loves comedy, and it heals me to do that — finding roles to use these parts of myself and put them in little homes and characters and bits and voices and songs," she revealed during her candid interview.

Balancing Pop Stardom and Theatrical Ambitions

Despite her immense success as a pop superstar, Grande has made it clear that she doesn't intend to abandon her musical pursuits entirely. "I'm always going to make music, I'm always going to go on stage, I'm always going to do pop stuff, I pinky promise," she assured her fans. However, she acknowledged that the relentless pace of her pop career over the past decade may not be sustainable in the long run. "I don't think doing it at the rate I've been doing it for the past 10 years is where I see the next 10 years," she admitted, hinting at a more balanced approach to her artistic endeavors.

Embracing the Emotional Healing of Theatrical Roles

For Grande, the opportunity to return to her theatrical roots holds a deeper significance. She described the process of "finding roles to use these parts of myself and put them in little homes and characters and bits and voices and songs" as a form of emotional healing. "Whatever makes sense, or whatever roles we see fit, or where I could really do a good job or honor the material, I would really love to. I think it's a lot better for me. I'm getting emotional," she shared, underscoring the profound personal connection she feels to the world of musical theater.

Navigating the Challenges of Artistic Transition

While Grande's fans have enthusiastically embraced her pop music, the artist has acknowledged that her pivot to more theatrical roles has not always been met with universal approval. Reflecting on the release of her 2020 album "Positions," she shared, "When it came out, it kind of didn't go so well. I just got like, 'This is not what we want' vibes." This experience has led Grande to be more cautious in her approach, as she admitted to "scrapping so many things I was going to put out for it."

Embracing the Unpredictable Nature of Artistic Evolution

Despite the challenges, Grande has embraced the unpredictable nature of her artistic evolution. She expressed surprise at the positive reception her "Positions" album has since received, noting, "And now people love it like it's the best thing I'll ever make! What is that? How is that fair? But I love them for it." This openness to the ebb and flow of public opinion reflects Grande's commitment to staying true to her artistic vision, even in the face of uncertainty.

Anticipation for the "Wicked" Film Adaptation

As Ariana Grande prepares to take on the role of Glinda the Good Witch in the highly anticipated "Wicked" film adaptation, her fans and the broader entertainment industry are eagerly awaiting her return to the stage. The film, which also stars Cynthia Erivo, Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Golblum, and Ethan Slater, is set to premiere on November 22nd, marking a significant milestone in Grande's artistic journey.