Ariana Grande looks noticeably different in photos from before filming the Wicked movies compared with recent premieres, mainly because of weight loss, styling changes, and the physical/mental demands of the role. Public discussion has focused heavily on her body, but she has previously said that an earlier, curvier era people idealize was actually when she was unhealthier, on many medications, drinking more, and not taking good care of herself.

Physical appearance

Before Wicked, Ariana often appeared with a softer, curvier frame, heavy glam makeup, high ponytail, and bronzed skin tone in red-carpet photos. At recent Wicked premieres, she is much slimmer, with lighter makeup, a more natural or retro-inspired hairstyle, and styling that emphasizes a very petite silhouette, which many fans online interpret as a drastic transformation.

Public concern and her response

Side‑by‑side “before and after Wicked” collages of Ariana and other cast members have gone viral, with some commenters expressing concern that she looks extremely thin and possibly unwell. In response to similar body commentary in 2023, she explained in a TikTok that the body people were praising in older photos reflected her “unhealthiest” period and asked fans not to make speculative or comparative comments about her size.

Context around Wicked

Ariana has wanted to be in Wicked for over a decade, auditioning multiple times and ultimately being cast as Glinda, a dream role she pursued from her early twenties. Filming a large musical franchise, combined with personal stressors and intense vocal and rehearsal demands, likely contributed to changes in routine, diet, and overall presentation, though she has not given a detailed public breakdown tying specific physical changes directly to Wicked.