Ariana Grande received the rising star award at the 2025 Palm Springs International Film Festival and thanked her two “friends” Botox and Juvederm for their help in maintaining her youthful appearance. She expressed gratitude for being recognized as a rising star at the age of 31, despite expecting to be referred to as a “withering star” or a “drooping star” due to her age. Grande also acknowledged her early career in stand-up comedy and the impact laughter had on her life, mentioning that playing Glinda in Wicked felt like a homecoming to her roots in comedy.
Grande had previously revealed in a Vogue interview that she had undergone botox and lip filler treatments but stopped using them in 2018. She discussed the challenges of dealing with criticism about her appearance at a young age and the difficulty of discerning which voices to listen to. In her acceptance speech, she also thanked Wicked director Jon M. Chu and her costar Cynthia Erivo, emphasizing her love for comedy and the joy it brings her. Grande expressed that returning to comedy through her role in Wicked felt like the beginning of a new chapter in her career.
The singer/actress has received critical acclaim for her role as Glinda in Wicked: Part One, earning her nominations for a Golden Globe and a Critics Choice Award. The chairman of the Palm Springs Film Festival praised Grande’s portrayal of Glinda, highlighting her exceptional musical talent, characterization, and comedic timing. Grande’s seamless transition from music to film has solidified her as a multifaceted and undeniable talent, with her role in Wicked being just the beginning of many accolades in her acting career. The festival honored Grande with the Rising Star Award, recognizing her as an iconic global performer with a promising future in acting.
Grande’s journey from a child performer to a successful pop star to a rising star in the acting world has been a source of inspiration for many. Her ability to navigate the entertainment industry with grace and authenticity has endeared her to fans and critics alike. By embracing her comedic roots and exploring new avenues in her career, Grande continues to push boundaries and challenge herself creatively. With her impressive body of work and dedication to her craft, Grande has proven herself to be a versatile and talented artist with a bright future ahead.
