Ariana Grande playing Glinda in Wicked. Picture: Alamy
Ariana Grande Discusses Voice Changes After Playing Glinda in Wicked
Ariana Grande has addressed the noticeable shift in her speaking voice since portraying Glinda in Wicked, revealing that the role required a deep vocal transformation that may have lasting effects.
Fans first noticed Ariana’s voice change in 2024 during the promotion of her single “Eternal Sunshine.” A viral moment from her interview with Penn Badgley on PodCrushed amplified the discussion, with listeners observing her speaking voice had become higher and more reminiscent of Glinda’s tone compared to her previously lower register.
Why Ariana’s Voice Changed
In an interview with Variety, Ariana explained that the change in her voice occurred naturally as a result of immersing herself in the role of Glinda. She stated:
“Maybe people underestimate how long we spent finding and disappearing into these women. So when certain inflections or mannerisms take time to melt away, sometimes people poke fun. But we had a job to do, and we had things to get lost in, because that’s what the piece required.”
Ariana also revealed the extensive vocal training she underwent to embody Glinda:
“I trained every day to transform my voice, even, like, my singing voice. Everything about me, I had to deconstruct to prove to them I could handle taking on this other person.”
This transformation echoes other actors who have similarly adjusted their voices for roles, such as Austin Butler, whose voice noticeably changed after portraying Elvis Presley.
Will Ariana’s Voice Stay This Way?
Reflecting on whether her voice will return to how it was, Ariana admitted:
“I think that might stay. Galinda required a lot of vocal work for me. Certain things maybe won’t melt away. Some will.”
She expressed gratitude for the lasting impact the role has had on her:
“I’m really grateful for the pieces that will stay with us forever. What a beautiful thing to be left with, and to feel the ghost of every day.”
A History of Intentional Vocal Adjustments
In June 2024, Ariana addressed fans’ comments on TikTok about her voice fluctuating, writing:
“Habit (speaking like this for two years) and also vocal health. I intentionally change my vocal placement (high / low) often depending on how much singing I’m doing.”
She humorously ended the post with: “I’ve always done this Bye.”
Ariana’s commitment to fully inhabiting her characters demonstrates her dedication as a performer, and fans will continue to follow how her artistic journey shapes her voice and career.
