What happens when two Broadway-bound witches sneak into the “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” Werk Room? Magic. Magic, and a little bit of mayhem. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, the powerhouse pair set to star as Glinda and Elphaba in the upcoming “Wicked“ movie, gave the queens of “All Stars 10” the surprise of the season with a glittering, glassy-eyed entrance that had the contestants belly laughing and grinning.
In true “RuPaul Drag Race” fashion, the moment was over-the-top and absolutely iconic. “Hi! We’re here!” Grande beamed from behind the mirror, while Erivo giggled, “This is amazing!” as the two peeked through the famous two-way glass like a couple of mischievous stage moms.
The gag was a callback to a legendary moment from “All Stars 2” when eliminated queens were hidden behind the mirror. It’s a twist that’s now embedded in Drag Race history. Acid Betty, back for redemption this season, didn’t miss a beat. She labeled it “the face crack of the century, part two.”
Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivo’s Sparkling Cameo
Fans know Grande and Erivo have each walked the Drag Race runway before, but never together. That changed in “All Stars 10,” where the duo is serving as guest judges. By the look on their faces, you can clearly see they are having the time of their lives doing it. From kissing the mirror to waving like proud fairy godmothers, their cameo featured queens Alyssa Hunter, Cynthia Lee Fontaine, and Denali squealing with delight.
“How am I supposed to focus now?” Daya cracked after the magical interruption. Fair question. It’s not every day you’re photobombed by the Witches of Oz themselves.
Grande and Erivo aren’t just popping in for the giggles. Their appearance teases the kind of synergy we’re expecting from “Wicked: For Good,” due in theaters November 27, 2024. With Erivo’s Broadway roots and Grande’s pop diva pipes, the chemistry is real. Safe to say their behind-the-scenes Werk Room banter proves it.
What They’re Up to Now (Besides Stealing the Spotlight)
Grande is riding a massive wave of pop success, fresh off the release of her chart-climbing album “Eternal Sunshine,” while also promoting “Wicked” as Glinda the Good Witch. The Grammy winner first graced the Drag Race panel back in season 7 and again for the season 15 premiere in a look paying homage to the legendary Ornacia.
Erivo, an Oscar-nominated actress known for her soul-stirring performances in “Harriet” and “The Color Purple,” is taking her turn as Elphaba, bringing some serious vocal thunder to Oz. She is also riding high after successfully hosting the Tony Awards this year, a few days ago.
Both stars have openly supported the show and their artists. Grande is known for following multiple queens and even sending them personal messages. It’s a full-circle moment for two theater lovers turned drag superfans.
“RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 10” airs new episodes Fridays exclusively on Paramount+. Want more of Grande and Erivo? Catch them casting spells in “Wicked: For Good” in theaters this November. But keep your eyes peeled for more surprise appearances, because in this world of artistic creativity, anything can happen.
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WATCH: Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo Bring Glinda and Elphaba Energy to ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 10’