Grab your broomsticks because we’re diving deep into the whirlwind surrounding Ariana Grande’s rendition of "Popular" from the Wicked movie adaptation! From staying true to her Broadway roots to debates about health and vocal choices, this story is as dramatic as a wicked-defying gravity belt.

#Wicked composer Stephen Schwartz says that Ariana Grande was adamant that they stay true to the original 'Popular.'

“She does little inventive things within it, but I think they are strongly character-based. That was something she was very insistent on” https://t.co/MPnSVytfj5 pic.twitter.com/KLHkyoZoAF

— TIME (@TIME) November 15, 2024

Wicked composer Stephen Schwartz recently revealed that Grande was fiercely dedicated to honoring the original version of “Popular.” The bubbly anthem, first immortalized by Kristin Chenoweth in 2003, is a high-energy ode to Glinda’s charm-school wisdom. Schwartz praised Grande's commitment to staying in character, noting that her vocal tweaks were subtle, purposeful, and grounded in Glinda’s motivations.  

“She does little inventive things within it,” Schwartz told TIME. “But they are strongly character-based. Ariana was adamant that we don’t lose the soul of Glinda.”  

Grande initially hesitated over an extended ending Schwartz wrote, which he described as a “character-defining stinger.” However, once convinced it was integral to Glinda’s cinematic arc, she embraced it. Fans can also expect fresh choreography and key changes in this updated rendition, as Grande shared on the Emsolation podcast. 

“Adding a longer ending was tricky, but it makes sense for Glinda," she explained. "I had to trust Stephen’s vision on that.”  

🚨 ariana reveals that the movie version of “popular” is extended

it has a longer ending, key changes and choreography #wickedmovie pic.twitter.com/xaz4vqjm2j

— Ariana Grande Today ☼ (@ArianaToday) November 6, 2024

Theater kids and pop fans alike took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to share their thoughts, with reactions ranging from glowing praise to brutal critiques.  

“Hearing all the theater-kids fuss over the new recording of ‘Popular’ is hilarious. It’s a clear homage to Kristin Chenoweth. Ariana did a great job," wrote a fan. "Tired of people saying it sounds AI. Ariana gave Glinda cute and raspy edges in her performance – that’s no mistake. She nailed it," added another. 

But not everyone was spellbound.  

“This sounds like Taylor Swift doing a ‘Cats’ audition. Ariana’s trying to balance Kristin’s tone with her own pop persona, and it’s dull," shared a user. One fan pointed out Grande’s long-standing connection to Wicked. "Not enough chatter about Ariana featuring on Mika’s track years ago, sampling ‘Popular.’ She’s been linked to this for over a decade." 

Not NEARLY enough chatter about how over a decade ago, Ariana Grande featured on a Mika track that uses a sample of Wicked’s “Popular” as the hook.

Culture!! pic.twitter.com/obvdVPqH0D

— Patrick Fisackerly (@fisackerly) November 14, 2024

Grande and her co-star Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba, brought their witchy glam to the Wicked Los Angeles premiere. Both stars gushed over their time spent with the original Glinda and Elphaba, Chenoweth and Idina Menzel.  

“It’s a very supportive witch coven,” Grande joked during a red-carpet interview with E! News. “We’re so honored to be part of this legacy.”  

Cynthia chimed in, describing their bond on set: “We needed real connection and to lead this with love – even in the moments where the characters clash."

Beyond the Wicked spotlight, Grande's appearance sparked conversations about her weight loss. Dressed in a custom Thom Browne gingham gown, the singer’s petite frame became a hot topic.  In a candid TikTok video from last year, Grande addressed public commentary on her body. 

"We should be gentler and less comfortable commenting on people’s bodies – no matter the intention." She revealed that the version of her people deemed “healthy” was during her most unhealthy period, battling depression and poor habits.  

@uproxxpop “Healthy can look different” ❤️ [credit: @arianagrande] #arianagrande #bodyimage #weight #bekind ♬ original sound - UPROXX Pop Life

Both Grande and Erivo faced scrutiny for their slender figures at the event, with social media buzzing about their appearances. Comments ranged from concern to blatant criticism:  

“Were they starving during filming?” said a fan. “They look hungry. Get these ladies a burger!”

Despite the noise, fans rallied to defend the stars, celebrating their talent and dedication to their roles.  

Fans are divided between excitement and skepticism. Grande's performance of “Popular” will undoubtedly be one of the most dissected moments in the film. Whether you’re rooting for Glinda’s glittery charm or skeptical of this new adaptation, one thing’s clear: this movie is already casting a spell on pop culture.  

Photo Credit: @arianagrande on Instagram.