Ariana Grande received the rising star award at the 2025 Palm Springs International Film Festival. She expressed gratitude to her friends Botox and Juvederm for allowing her to maintain a youthful appearance at 31. Grande, who began performing at a young age, never expected to be called a rising star at this stage in her career. She also thanked Wicked director Jon M. Chu and her costar Cynthia Erivo for their support.
In a Vogue interview in September 2023, Grande opened up about using botox and lip filler in the past but stopped in 2018. She discussed the pressure she faced regarding her appearance from a young age and how challenging it was to navigate those expectations. Grande shared that her first love was comedy, even before she became a pop star. Playing Glinda the Good in Wicked felt like a homecoming for her, as it allowed her to reconnect with the joy of making people laugh.
Grande’s portrayal of Glinda in Wicked has garnered critical acclaim, earning her nominations for a Golden Globe and Critics Choice Award. The Palm Springs Film Festival chairman praised Grande’s performance, highlighting her exceptional musical talent, characterization, and comedic timing. Grande’s transition from music to film has been seamless, showcasing her versatility as a performer. The Rising Star Award recognizes Grande’s potential for success in her acting career.
The singer expressed how much laughter means to her and how it has always been a source of joy in her life. Starting out in stand-up comedy at a young age, Grande learned the impact of laughter on others and the fulfillment it brought her. After focusing on music for the past decade, she missed the feeling that comedy gave her. Playing Glinda in Wicked has marked the beginning of a new chapter for Grande, allowing her to reconnect with her roots in comedy.
Grande’s acceptance speech at the Palm Springs Film Festival highlighted her journey in the entertainment industry, from her early beginnings in comedy to her success as a pop star and actress. The recognition she has received for her role in Wicked is a testament to her talent and versatility as a performer. As Grande continues to explore her acting career, it is clear that she has the potential to achieve even greater success in the future. The Rising Star Award serves as a testament to Grande’s talent and the bright future that lies ahead for her in the entertainment industry.
