"In what world is Ariana 'rising'?": Netizens react as Ariana Grande wins Rising Star Award for Wicked at Palm Springs Film Festival

"Wicked: Part One" European Premiere -   Arrivals - Source: Getty
Ariana Grande at "Wicked: Part One" European premiere. (Image via Getty)

Ariana Grande is set to receive the 2025 Rising Star Award at the Palm Springs Film Festival for her portrayal of Glinda in Wicked, the highly successful adaptation of the Broadway musical, as per Deadline. The festival, which will run from January 2 to 13, 2025, will honor the singer-turned-actress for her performance in the role that has garnered widespread attention.

The award ceremony is scheduled for January 3, 2025, at the Palm Springs Convention Center. Festival Chairman Nachhattar Singh Chandi praised Grande for her performance, stating:

"In Wicked, Ariana Grande’s portrayal of Glinda elevates her to new heights with a powerful acting performance that beautifully combines her outstanding musical talent, brilliant characterization and impeccable comedic timing.”

However, not all fans are convinced by the honor. On social media, several fans expressed surprise at the award, questioning the decision to recognize Grande's "rising star" status.

"In what world is Ariana "rising"? She’s been one of the most successful pop stars for the last decade," one person on Reddit posted.
Netizens react as Ariana Grande wins Rising Star Award for Wicked at Palm Springs Film Festival (Image via @NotTaken-username/Reddit)
Netizens react as Ariana Grande wins Rising Star Award for Wicked at Palm Springs Film Festival (Image via @NotTaken-username/Reddit)

This comment sparked further discussions among fans who felt that the term "rising" might not be the most fitting given Grande’s established global presence.

"Ariana......rising star? Is it for only films or something?" another Reddit user asked.
"Rising from what? She’s been an actress and a famous singer since she was a child. Just give her the award but stop the other nonsense, Also Mikey Madison is more deserving of that award!" one Reddit user stated.

This remark highlighted the disconnect between Grande's already established music career and the notion of her "rising" status in Hollywood. Yet, not everyone shared this skepticism.

"OH IKTR. ARIANA GRANDE THE ACTRESS THAT YOU ARE," one fan on X wrote.
"It is what she deserves," another fan added.
"A well-deserved honor for this multitalented star. Who else can’t wait to see her shine on the big screen?" a fan wrote on X.

Ariana Grande recognized for her breakthrough role in Wicked at the Palm Springs Film Festival

Festival Chairman Nachhattar Singh Chandi called Grande "an iconic global performer" who has successfully transitioned into film, with her role in Wicked being described as the start of many future accolades in her acting career.

In addition to Wicked, Grande’s screen credits include Adam McKay’s Netflix film Don’t Look Up (2021) and a guest appearance in Showtime’s Kidding (2020).

The Rising Star Award has been previously given to several renowned actors, including Gal Gadot (Wonder Woman), Anna Kendrick (Up in the Air), and Jennifer Lawrence (Winter's Bone), some of whom later went on to receive Academy Award nominations.

In addition to Ariana Grande, the Palm Springs Film Festival will honor several other talented individuals. Timothée Chalamet will receive the Chairman’s Award, and Adrien Brody will be presented with the Desert Palm Achievement Award.

The event will also recognize actors like Colman Domingo, Nicole Kidman, and Mikey Madison, as well as the ensemble cast of Conclave, with stars including Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci.

Edited by Niharika Dabral
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