Ariana Grande received the Rising Star Award at the 2025 Palm Springs International Film Festival for her role as Glinda in the upcoming film Wicked. In her acceptance speech, Grande humorously thanked her “good friends” Botox and Juvéderm for helping her maintain her youthful appearance at the age of 31. She expressed surprise at receiving the Rising Star Award at this stage in her career, joking that she expected to be called a “Slightly Withering Star” or a “Drooping Star” instead. Grande also thanked Jennifer Coolidge, who presented her with the award, for her comedic genius and inspiration throughout her life.
Jennifer Coolidge, the actress known for her roles in films like Legally Blonde and American Pie, was the one to present Ariana Grande with the Rising Star Award at the Palm Springs International Film Festival. Grande, who has previously impersonated Coolidge on TV shows like The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and Saturday Night Live, expressed her gratitude to Coolidge for her support and inspiration. Acknowledging Coolidge’s comedic talent, Grande described her as a brilliant performer who has had a lasting impact on her life. The two shared a heartfelt moment on stage as Grande expressed her admiration for Coolidge.
The band played the song “Popular” from the movie Wicked as Jennifer Coolidge presented Ariana Grande with the Rising Star Award at the film festival. The choice of music added to the celebratory atmosphere of the event, with Grande receiving recognition for her performance as Glinda in the highly anticipated film. As she accepted the award, Grande reflected on her journey in the entertainment industry, highlighting the unexpected nature of receiving the Rising Star Award at this point in her career. Her humorous comments about cosmetic fillers added a touch of levity to the occasion as she thanked Botox and Juvéderm for their contributions to her appearance.
Ariana Grande’s acceptance of the Rising Star Award at the Palm Springs International Film Festival marked a significant moment in her career, showcasing her talent and versatility as an actress. With her portrayal of Glinda in Wicked, Grande has garnered critical acclaim and industry recognition, earning her the prestigious award. Her playful and witty acceptance speech, which included references to cosmetic fillers, demonstrated her ability to infuse humor into her public appearances while also expressing gratitude to those who have supported her. Grande’s tribute to Jennifer Coolidge further underscored the impact of mentorship and inspiration in the entertainment industry.
In addition to her acting achievements, Ariana Grande is also known for her successful music career, with hits like “7 Rings” and “Thank U, Next” cementing her status as a pop music powerhouse. The multi-talented performer has seamlessly transitioned between music and acting, showcasing her versatility and artistic range. By winning the Rising Star Award at the Palm Springs International Film Festival, Grande continues to solidify her status as a rising star in Hollywood, earning accolades for her performances on screen. Her ability to captivate audiences in both music and film underscores her talent and appeal as an entertainer.
As Ariana Grande continues to make her mark in the entertainment industry, her acceptance of the Rising Star Award at the Palm Springs International Film Festival serves as a testament to her growing legacy. With a career that spans music, acting, and entertainment, Grande has established herself as a versatile and dynamic performer with a bright future ahead. By acknowledging the support of her peers like Jennifer Coolidge and injecting humor into her acceptance speech, Grande demonstrated her gratitude and authenticity as an artist. As she embarks on new projects and collaborations, Grande’s star power continues to shine brightly in Hollywood and beyond.
