Ariana Grande recently spoke on Amy Poehler’s Good Hang podcast about her deeply affectionate relationship with her Wicked co-star, Cynthia Erivo. The pair have become well-known for their frequent physical gestures holding hands, gentle touches, and even that viral moment when Grande gently held and stroked Erivo’s finger during an interview. Fans noticed their closeness, but Grande says it’s simply the way she offers comfort and care.
Why They Touch So Much
Grande explained that she senses and channels a lot of energy through her hands. She admitted she’s always reaching for something, whether it’s someone’s hand or something to squeeze. For her, touch is a way to communicate support — especially when emotions are high or when she’s trying to reassure someone. She also said she never fully realized how much she touched others until that now-famous finger-holding moment with Erivo. Amy Poehler, during the podcast, pointed out just how sweet and non-sexual their physical connection is. She noted that Grande and Erivo check in with each other physically, in a very grounded and supportive way. Grande agreed, describing their touches as “loving” and essential to their friendship.
The Viral Finger Moment
One of the defining moments came when Grande reached over and grabbed Erivo’s little finger. She told Poehler that she didn’t plan it — she just felt compelled to be there for her friend. At the time, she was unsure of exactly what was happening, but she knew that she needed to offer comfort. The gesture was instinctive, tender, and meant to reassure Erivo in a very gentle way. Grande later reflected on how the media reacted to that moment. She admitted she didn’t predict how powerful it would feel to others, but she now recognizes how meaningful it was. For her, it wasn’t a staged gesture — it came from a place of real care and emotional connection.
Emotional Support on and Off Screen
Both Grande and Erivo have spoken about the emotional demands of filming Wicked. They described their bond as more than just a working relationship: it’s a deep friendship rooted in mutual trust, honesty, and support. Erivo once pointed out that when Ariana feels emotion, she needs physical contact — and Erivo is always there for her, whether that means a squeeze of the hand or a small pinch of the finger. Their closeness isn’t just for show. Over the course of the film’s production and press tours, they made a pact to take care of each other, personally and professionally. That agreement included being honest about their needs and making the effort to stay connected, even when the schedule is hectic.
Handling Criticism With Grace
The public has had a lot to say about their physical closeness — some people find it endearing, while others have criticized it as being “too much.” Grande and Erivo don’t shy away from that. They’ve defended their bond as purely platonic and emotionally supportive, not romantic or performative. Erivo, in particular, has spoken out strongly against online negativity. She’s highlighted how easy it is for people behind keyboards to misinterpret or mock their gestures, and she’s called for more kindness and understanding. For her, their friendship is real, honest, and built on a foundation of mutual respect.
Why It Truly Matters
At its heart, their connection illustrates a powerful truth: physical touch can be a vital, healthy way to communicate deeper emotions. It’s not always about words — sometimes the most meaningful conversations happen through simple gestures. By being so openly affectionate, Grande and Erivo challenge common assumptions about how friends support each other. Their closeness offers a hopeful reminder that emotional availability is not just acceptable, but necessary.
