An Australian man, whose attempt to meet Ariana Grande by grabbing her at a movie premiere sparked global online fury, has now been formally charged by a Singapore court. The incident, which was captured in viral videos, occurred during the highly anticipated Singapore premiere of 'Wicked: For Good'.
Formal Charges and Potential Penalty
Identified as Johnson Wen, a 26-year-old Australian widely recognised on social media as 'Pyjama Man', was charged on Friday with being a public nuisance. According to the latest reports from BBC News, if convicted, Wen could face a fine of up to S$2,000 (approximately USD $1,540). The report also states that Wen intends to plead guilty to the charge.
The Viral Grab and Co-star's Intervention
The dramatic event unfolded on Thursday when videos showed Wen breaking through a security barricade and rushing towards Ariana Grande as she was walking the yellow carpet with her co-stars. In a moment that shocked fans and onlookers, he managed to grab the pop star and actress. Before security personnel could react, Grande's co-star Cynthia Erivo stepped in and pushed the man away, showcasing quick thinking in a tense situation.
Shortly after the incident, the man took to his Instagram handle, seemingly bragging about the encounter. He posted that he was "free after being arrested" and went on to boast about 'meeting Ariana Grande'.
A History of Disrupting Events
Following the viral incident, fans and internet users were quick to uncover that this was not Wen's first such stunt. Investigations revealed a pattern of similar disruptive behaviour targeting various celebrities, all frequently documented on his social media handle. His past antics reportedly include getting onstage at concerts by Katy Perry, The Weeknd, and The Chainsmokers. In a sporting context, he also once ran onto a cricket field and hugged Indian cricketing superstar Virat Kohli.
This repeated behaviour triggered significant backlash online, with netizens worldwide calling for his arrest and a ban from future events and concerts. The 'Wicked: For Good' global promotional tour, featuring Grande, Erivo, and the rest of the cast, is currently on its final leg and concludes next week. The film itself is set for release on November 21.
