Ariana Grande and Zendaya Rivalry Rumors Debunked by Actress Statements

Rumors claimed Ariana Grande and Zendaya had a secret rivalry. However, Ariana Grande said she loves Zendaya and would like to work with her, calling the feud claims untrue.
By Newsroom | Entertainment, Celebrity Gossip |

Reports suggest a potential "secret rivalry" between actresses Ariana Grande and Zendaya, fueled by speculation around overlapping movie roles and professional competition. This narrative, however, exists alongside clear evidence of strong platonic bonds Grande shares with her "Wicked" co-star Cynthia Erivo, and Zendaya's established career trajectory. An examination of available information is needed to understand the basis of these competing narratives.

Background of Speculation

Public discourse and online commentary have given rise to differing perceptions of relationships between prominent actresses, particularly Ariana Grande. Recent years have seen various rumors emerge, ranging from alleged romantic connections with co-stars to professional competition.

  • Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo: Rumors of a "secret relationship" and even "secret marriage" between Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo have circulated. These claims were amplified by online speculation, including a ring noticed on Erivo's finger and social media posts from Erivo's former partner.

  • Ariana Grande and Zendaya: Whispers of a "secret feud" and "constant competition" between Ariana Grande and Zendaya have also appeared, often linked to potential casting in major film projects.

Evidence of Grande-Erivo Bond

The narrative of Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo being romantically involved or feuding appears to be directly contradicted by their public statements and actions.

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  • Platonic Relationship Affirmation: Cynthia Erivo has repeatedly stated that her relationship with Ariana Grande is "entirely platonic" and "100 percent real." She has attributed the intensity of their connection to the extensive preparation and filming of the movie "Wicked."

  • Addressing Rumors: Erivo specifically addressed rumors of a secret relationship, suggesting that societal discomfort with close platonic bonds between women may contribute to such speculation. She has also noted that both she and Grande have their own existing relationships.

  • Protective Incident: An incident where Erivo intervened to protect Grande from an individual during a public event has been cited as evidence of their strong bond, leaving Grande reportedly "deeply shaken."

  • Professional Collaboration: Their friendship reportedly began during the "years of preparation and filming" for "Wicked," with the understanding that their connection could be a positive factor for the film.

  • Geographic Separation: It is noted that their demanding schedules and geographic separation (Grande based in Los Angeles, Erivo in London) limit their time together outside of professional commitments.

Allegations of Grande-Zendaya Competition

Claims of a "secret feud" and "constant competition" between Ariana Grande and Zendaya appear to be linked to industry rumors rather than concrete evidence of conflict.

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  • Overlapping Project Speculation: The primary basis for these claims seems to stem from speculation around potential overlapping movie roles. For example, a potential remake of "9 to 5" was discussed, with both actresses' names mentioned in connection with it.

  • Grande's Stance on "9 to 5": Regarding the "9 to 5" remake, Ariana Grande expressed a positive sentiment towards the actresses mentioned (including Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney), stating she "loves all those women" and would "love to work with them." However, she also indicated a preference for "something original." This statement does not suggest animosity but rather a thoughtful consideration of career opportunities.

  • Lack of Direct Evidence: No direct quotes or documented instances of animosity or competition between Grande and Zendaya are readily available. The "secret feud" narrative appears to be based on interpretations of industry activity and unconfirmed "insider" claims.

Expert Analysis and Commentary

Commentary from various sources attempts to contextualize the rumors surrounding Ariana Grande.

"A relationship where people are connected sometimes just makes people uncomfortable; we aren't taught that those relationships are good for us.” - Cynthia Erivo, on the societal perception of intense platonic friendships.

"If their connection helps the movie, that’s a bonus — but the friendship is real." - Source cited in CelebsVibe, regarding Grande and Erivo's bond.

"Grande was pretty cagey on any details, but said that she had love for all the women mentioned, and said she would love to work with them, but would rather maybe do something original instead." - ComingSoon.net, summarizing Grande's comments on the "9 to 5" remake.

Conclusion and Outstanding Questions

The available evidence presents a dichotomy: a well-documented, affirmed platonic friendship between Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, and a largely unsubstantiated narrative of a "secret rivalry" between Ariana Grande and Zendaya.

  • Grande-Erivo Relationship: The claims of a secret romantic relationship or marriage between Grande and Erivo are demonstrably false, based on their own explicit statements and the context of their professional collaboration. Erivo's explanations suggest that public interpretation of strong female friendships can sometimes lead to unwarranted speculation.

  • Grande-Zendaya Rivalry: The "secret rivalry" between Grande and Zendaya appears to be a construct derived from industry buzz and the competitive nature often attributed to Hollywood. There is no concrete evidence to support direct conflict or a feud between the two actresses. Their interactions, as publicly reported, suggest professional cordiality, with Grande expressing admiration for Zendaya and other contemporaries.

Further investigation into the origins of the "rivalry" claims might involve examining the sources of the "insider" information and the specific industry dynamics that could give rise to such narratives. However, based on current reporting, the primary tension lies in public perception versus the articulated reality of the actresses' professional and personal relationships.

Key Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are Ariana Grande and Zendaya actually rivals?
No, claims of a secret rivalry between Ariana Grande and Zendaya are not true. There is no concrete proof of any feud. Ariana Grande has said she loves Zendaya and would like to work with her on future projects.
Q: What did Ariana Grande say about working with Zendaya?
Ariana Grande spoke about a possible '9 to 5' remake that mentioned her, Zendaya, and Sydney Sweeney. Grande said she loves all those women and would like to work with them, but she prefers to do something original.
Q: What is the truth about Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo's relationship?
Reports about a secret marriage or relationship between Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo are false. Cynthia Erivo has stated their bond is platonic and grew strong during the filming of 'Wicked'. She believes people are uncomfortable with close female friendships.
Q: Why did rumors start about Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo being secretly married?
Rumors started because of speculation online, including a ring seen on Cynthia Erivo's finger and old social media posts. Erivo addressed this, explaining it was due to their close friendship formed while working on the movie 'Wicked'.
Q: What is the basis for the rumors of a rivalry between Ariana Grande and Zendaya?
The rumors seem to come from speculation about overlapping movie roles, like a potential '9 to 5' remake. There is no direct evidence of any conflict between the two actresses, and Grande has expressed admiration for Zendaya.