Sometimes even the biggest stars can’t escape travel troubles — and Ariana Grande just proved that.
The pop icon and actress, who stars as Glinda in Wicked for Good, shared that she won’t be attending the film’s highly anticipated world premiere in São Paulo, Brazil, after her flight was grounded due to safety concerns.
Heartbreak in the Skies
The 32-year-old singer was supposed to grace the red carpet alongside her castmates at Universal’s first major international premiere for the movie.
But things took an unexpected turn when Ariana and her team were told to deplane after a maintenance issue was discovered on their aircraft.
Taking to Instagram, she poured out her frustration and sadness, explaining that despite all efforts, it was impossible to make it to Brazil in time.
“Brazil, I can’t believe this is happening and I am beyond devastated to be sending this message,” she wrote.
Every Option Exhausted
Grande revealed that her team, along with Universal Pictures, explored every possible alternative — from commercial flights to private charters — but nothing worked out.
“We searched every other flight, overnight, early morning, connecting flights, commercial and also private options and absolutely nothing was available or possible that would get us there in time,” she explained.
Even attempts to secure a private plane hit a wall due to required permits.
“There is a permit necessary in order to fly from here that takes time to attain,” she added, clearly crushed by the logistical nightmare.
A Heartfelt Apology to Brazilian Fans
Despite her disappointment, Ariana took the time to send love to her fans and her fellow cast members.
“I am so heartbroken that I’m unable to be there with you all,” she said in her post.
“We sincerely tried everything we could, and I apologize from the bottom of my heart.”
She urged fans to celebrate the occasion and show love to the rest of the cast: “Please shower my incredible castmates with all of the love that I wish I could be showering you with and have the most beautiful celebration.”
The Show Goes On
Even though Grande couldn’t make it, Wicked for Good continues its global rollout.
After the São Paulo premiere, the film will head to Paris on November 7, London on November 10, and Singapore on November 13.
The movie itself — hitting theaters on November 21 — is a sequel to 2024’s Wicked. It stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, alongside Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, and Bowen Yang.
The Magic of Wicked Lives On
Set in the Land of Oz, Wicked for Good explores the transformation of Elphaba and Glinda into the iconic characters known as the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good.
For Grande, the project has been an emotional journey.
“It feels really special to finally be able to share this with the world,” she said, reflecting on the long wait to bring the story’s conclusion to fans.
Cynthia Erivo echoed that excitement in an interview with Vanity Fair, adding, “I’m quite excited for people to see how far these characters have come and what the progress has been between the time you left them and where they are now. It’s a big journey.”
Looking Ahead
Though Ariana’s absence in Brazil is a disappointment for both her and fans, the spirit of Wicked for Good remains stronger than ever.
With upcoming premieres around the world and the full theatrical release just weeks away, the story of friendship, transformation, and magic continues — and Ariana will surely have her shining moment soon.