The 2025 Oscars kicked off with a bang, featuring a spectacular performance by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. The evening started with a montage of clips from various Oscar-nominated films, setting the stage for Grande's rendition of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow. " The performance was a tribute to the classic "Wizard of Oz. " Grande's powerful voice filled the auditorium, capturing the essence of the beloved song.

Following Grande's solo, Cynthia Erivo took the stage to perform Diana Ross' "Home" from "The Wiz. " The audience was captivated by Erivo's emotional delivery, which brought the song to life in a fresh and dynamic way. The performance was a testament to Erivo's versatility as an artist.

The highlight of the night came when Grande and Erivo joined forces to perform "Defying Gravity. " The duo's chemistry was palpable as they sang the iconic song from "Wicked. " Grande stepped aside to let Erivo take the spotlight, showcasing her incredible vocal range and the song's high notes. The performance was a standout moment, leaving the audience in awe.

Both Grande and Erivo were nominated for their roles in "Wicked, " with Grande in the supporting actress category and Erivo for best actress. Their performance at the Oscars was a celebration of their talent and the impact of "Wicked" on the film industry.

The Academy had initially announced a shift in focus for the Oscars, moving away from live performances of nominated songs to highlight the backstories of the nominated songwriters. However, the decision to feature Grande and Erivo in a Wicked medley was a welcome surprise. The Academy and its broadcasting partner ABC enlisted the two stars to kick off the show, setting a high standard for the rest of the night.

The Oscars also featured performances by other notable artists, including Doja Cat, Lisa of Blackpink, Queen Latifah, and Raye. These performances were designed to celebrate the filmmaking community and its legends. The Los Angeles Master Chorale also made a special appearance, adding to the evening's musical extravaganza.

Erivo and Grande's upcoming sequel, "Wicked: For Good, " promises to be just as captivating. On the red carpet, Erivo hinted at the emotional journey the characters will undertake, describing it as both joyful and heartbreaking. The sequel is expected to feature familiar and beloved songs, making it a must-watch for fans of the original.

The Oscars saw Emilia Pérez leading the nominations with a record-breaking 13 nods for a non-English-language film. "The Brutalist" and "Wicked" tied for second place with 10 nominations each, while "A Complete Unknown" and "Conclave" followed with eight mentions each. The 97th Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O'Brien, aired live on ABC and Hulu from the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood.

Wicked Stars Shine at the Oscars 2025

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