Ariana Grande auditioned for ‘Wicked’ without makeup on director’s unique request
Director Jon M. Chu initially struggled to see Glinda in Ariana Grande’s audition for ‘Wicked’ due to her established persona. Requesting a second, makeup-free audition, Chu saw a new side of Grande, revealing the Glinda he sought. This revelation sparked online debate, with some criticizing Chu’s request while others understood his desire to see beyond Grande’s iconic image.