In a recent candid interview, global superstar Ariana Grande has drawn a clear distinction between her two primary crafts: music and acting. The singer-actor, who recently starred as Glinda in the highly anticipated film 'Wicked: For Good', described the art of acting as a profoundly collaborative and selfless journey, contrasting it with the deeply personal nature of songwriting.
The Art of Stepping into Another's Shoes
Speaking to the renowned entertainment publication Variety, Grande elaborated on what makes acting a unique passion for her. She expressed that the opportunity to embody a character and narrate a story that isn't her own is nothing short of an 'amazing experience.' This stands in stark contrast to her musical process, which she views as intensely introspective.
'With music, it's very self-focused and deeply personal - it's your own experiences, your own pain and joy. Acting is different,' Grande explained. For her, the magic lies in the ability to 'step into somebody else and tell someone else's story', a process that requires removing one's own identity to serve a larger narrative.
A Celebration of Ensemble and Collaboration
Grande further emphasized the communal aspect of filmmaking, which she finds incredibly rewarding. She highlighted the beauty of being one piece of a much larger creative puzzle. 'To take yourself out of it, to be part of an ensemble, a small piece of a massive puzzle with hundreds and thousands of creative hands, that's a beautiful thing,' she shared with evident enthusiasm.
The actor's admiration for her fellow artists was palpable. 'I love actors...I love talking about acting. I love learning how my process changes. I'll never take that for granted,' Grande added, underscoring her commitment to and respect for the acting profession.
Grande's Latest Cinematic Venture
Ariana Grande's reflections come on the heels of her latest cinematic release. She stars as the good witch Glinda in 'Wicked: For Good', which hit screens in November 2025. The film serves as the second part to director Jon M Chu's 2024 movie 'Wicked'.
The ensemble cast features a stellar lineup, with Cynthia Erivo portraying Elphaba. The film also stars actors Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, and the acclaimed Michelle Yeoh, rounding off a powerful group of performers who bring the magical world of Oz to life.
Grande's insightful comparison sheds light on the multifaceted nature of artistic expression, celebrating both the personal catharsis of music and the transformative, collaborative joy of acting.