Pop star Ariana Grande responded to a journalist who poked fun at the singer's sweet gesture seen during the viral "holding space" interview.
LGBTQ+ journalist Tracy E. Gilchrist from Out magazine interviewed Grande and her Wicked costar Cynthia Erivo, and she apprised the leading ladies of Wicked about people embracing the lyrics from the climactic song at the end of the two-part film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical, loosely based on characters from Wizard of Oz.
Gilchrist said fans had been "holding space" for the lyrics of "Defying Gravity," adding that she was "glad people are finding joy in it." She explained that "holding space" meant “being physically, emotionally, and mentally present with someone or something.”
"Defying Gravity" was the Act 1 ender in the stage version and concludes the film adaptation until it resumes next November with Wicked: Part 2.
The empowering song is a pivotal moment when Elphaba, played by Erivo, begins her transformation as "Wicked Witch of the West" after she realizes the truth about the Wizard's deception of the citizens of Oz and his manipulative plans to exploit Elphaba's blossoming powers.
Since the Broadway show's opening in 2003, "Defying Gravity" has resonated with many people who've felt like an outsider, and it has inspired them to find their voice and power.
"I've seen this week people are taking the lyrics of 'Defying Gravity' and really holding space with that and feeling power in that," Gilchrist said, getting existential.
The comment prompted Ervio to place her hand against her chest and admit she wasn't aware of this niche phenomenon among fans.
"That's really powerful," said Erivo, adding, "That's what I really wanted."
Erivo, who remained emotionally overwhelmed during the interview, was comforted by Grande, who endearingly held onto the finger of Erivo's free hand to show support.
You can watch a snippet of the interview here.
The interview went viral for so many reasons.
Regarding the iconic song, the timing of "Defying Gravity" is relevant in light of the 2024 election turnout when many disappointed voters remain concerned about their mental and physical well-being looking ahead.
In response to being asked her thoughts on marginalized individuals like Elphaba finding strength in times of uncertainty, Erivo commented:
"I think that it's really important for [Elphaba] in that moment to not allow the things that have hurt her that have stripped her of her humanity to keep her down."
Meanwhile, Grande continued delicately holding Erivo's finger, and the image was memeified.
Their close bond has been evident throughout their appearances together promoting Wicked at official premieres around the world. Grande and Erivo have been seen holding the other's hand during emotional moments, demonstrating they are there for each other.
Grande subtly showed her appreciation of the "holding space" convo by sharing Instagrammer Evan Ross Katz's post featuring a closeup shot of her holding Erivo's finger from the Out magazine interview to her Instagram story.
On Saturday, Gilchrist was featured in a Davis Granados' TikTok clip using the interview soundbite to rib Grande and the viral finger-holding meme.
The TikTok clip showed Gilchrist and Granados recreating the tender finger-holding moment to demonstrate that they were also "holding space" for each other.
And Grande responded to it in the comments.
"Oh my goodness! Our Queen!!!!" she approvingly wrote, adding, "Holding space with you always."
@arianagrande/TikTok
People loved seeing Grande being a good sport about the TikTok video, proving it was all in jest.
@arianagrande/TikTok
@arianagrande/TikTok
@arianagrande/TikTok
@arianagrande/TikTok
@arianagrande/TikTok
Many agreed with Grande's positive assessment of Gilchrist.
@arianagrande/TikTok
@arianagrande/TikTok
@arianagrande/TikTok
@arianagrande/TikTok
We are definitely "holding space" for this wicked interaction.
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