Ariana Grande Speaks Out Against ‘Cringe’ Culture, Champions Authenticity

Pop superstar Ariana Grande is challenging the current trend of dismissing genuine emotion as “cringe,” advocating for the freedom to express joy and passion without judgment.

During a recent appearance on the “Shut Up Evan” podcast, Grande expressed her frustration with a culture that often shames earnestness. “Earnestness scares people so much, and I think that’s really sad… The whole ‘cringe,’ whatever, is just so unfair,” she stated. The singer reflected on instances during last year’s Wicked press tour where her and co-star Cynthia Erivo’s emotional responses were met with criticism, even becoming the subject of online memes like the “holding space” trend.

Grande clarified that her feelings about the “cringe” label are deeply personal, and she refuses to apologize for experiencing emotions fully. She questioned whether this aversion to vulnerability stems from “PTSD or whatever,” but emphasized her own gratitude for her capacity to feel. This discussion arrives as societal conversations around authenticity and online performance continue to grow. She also discussed the upcoming promotional cycle for Wicked: For Good, noting a shift towards a more fan-focused approach, including a concert special premiering on NBC in early November. Fans can learn more about the original Wicked film, which broke box office records as the highest-grossing Broadway musical adaptation, here.

Currently filming Focker In-Law alongside Ben Stiller and Robert De Niro, Grande is balancing multiple projects while preparing for the Wicked press tour, which begins after she wraps filming on Halloween. She also shared anecdotes about career advice received from music icons Madonna and Beyoncé. The original Wicked soundtrack reached No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart, demonstrating the film’s broad appeal.

Grande is expected to begin the Wicked: For Good press tour in Brazil in early November, with the film set to release in theaters later that month.