Ariana Grande took to Instagram late Monday to apologize to her fans and announce that she will miss Tuesday’s world premiere of “Wicked: For Good” in Brazil.
According to Grande, who plays Glinda the Good in the Jon M. Chu-directed “Wicked” sequel, her absence from the film’s upcoming premiere is the result of technical issues with her flight to Brazil. “I can’t believe this is happening and I am beyond devastated to send this message,” Grande wrote in a Instagram Article published Monday evening.
“A few hours ago, me and my team had to leave our flight, because they had to do maintenance on the plane due to a security issue and it won’t take off until 11 tomorrow, which means I wouldn’t make it in time for the premiere of ‘Wicked For Good’ in São Paulo,” explained the “Eternal Sunshine” singer. “My team and Universal have tried everything possible to fix this.”
“We have searched every other flight, overnight, early morning, connecting flights, commercial and even private options and absolutely nothing was available or possible that would get us there on time. Even if we try a private option there is a permit required to fly from here that takes time to get,” Grande added. “I’m so heartbroken that I can’t be there with you all. We sincerely tried everything we could and I apologize from the bottom of my heart.”
Grande received her first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Glinda in last year’s “Wicked” Part One. The film itself proved to be a critical and financial hit, grossing over $756 million at the box office worldwide and receiving 10 Academy Award nominations, including one for Best Picture.
“Please shower my incredible cast with all the love I wish I could shower you with and have the most beautiful celebration,” the singer’s post on Monday concluded. “Again, I’m so, so sorry.”
The screening of “Wicked: For Good” in Brazil will serve as the film’s world premiere before it hits theaters in a few weeks on November 21.
While Grande will unfortunately not be in attendance during Tuesday’s event, “Wicked” fans can look forward to seeing her and her co-star Cynthia Erivo in the upcoming televised musical event “Wicked: One Wonderful Night,” which premieres Thursday on NBC and begins streaming Friday on the Peacock.
“Wicked: For Good” hits theaters Friday, November 21.
