Have the lyrics to Wicked changed for good? The answer is no, according to Ariana Grande.
On Nov. 13, the official Wicked film account on Instagram teased Grande’s version of Galinda/Glinda’s well-known song “Popular” in a video featuring lyrics and clips from the scene in the upcoming musical film. However, the star then left a comment calling out the account for apparently sharing an incorrect lyric.
In the video, Grande’s character sings the song to costar Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, and the lyrics read: “Popular, you’re gonna be popular / I’ll teach you the proper poise when you talk to boys / Little ways to flirt and flounce, ooh!”
The “7 Rings” singer then took to the comments section with a correction. “it’s ‘ploys’ !!!!!! i love you @wickedmovie,” she wrote, referencing the “poise” lyric from the clip.
The official ‘Wicked’ film account on Instagram.Wicked Movie/Instagram
Grande seems to be correct, as the official Wicked sheet music released by Hal Leonard Corporation for the original Broadway musical states the lyric as, “I’ll teach you the proper ploys when you talk to boys.”
Wicked: Part One is in theaters Nov. 22. The film also stars Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard, Marissa Bode as Nessarose, Bowen Yang as Pfannee, Keala Settle as Miss Coddle, Ethan Slater as Boq and Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible.
Kristin Chenoweth and Ariana Grande in New York City in October 2024.Kevin Mazur/Getty
In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Kristin Chenoweth — who originated the role of Galinda/Glinda on Broadway — said she “can’t wait” for the world to see Grande in the role.
“I couldn’t be more excited for her, and I can’t wait for the world to see what I know, which is how funny she is,” she said. “She’s wickedly funny, a fantastic actor and she’s going to get the opportunity to show it in this part.”
Chenoweth, 56, also revealed the advice she gave Grande. “I told her, ‘You need to do your version of Glinda and I’m giving you permission. And that’s the only way I’ve helped her,” she explained. “I let go of the reins.”