Beyond the Microphone: Unpacking Ariana Grande’s Breakthrough Roles in Cinema

Ariana Grande is a household name, celebrated for her powerhouse vocals and chart-topping hits. However, her talent extends far beyond the microphone. Grande has proven herself as a versatile actress, making significant strides in both film and television. Let’s delve into some of her breakthrough roles that showcase her range and depth as an actress.

Wicked (2024)

Grande’s most anticipated role is in the upcoming film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical “Wicked.” Set for release in December 2024, Grande will play Glinda the Good Witch, a role that promises to highlight her musical prowess and acting chops. The two-part musical adaptation will explore the untold story of the witches of Oz, providing Grande with a platform to showcase her talent in a genre that seamlessly blends her musical and acting skills.

Don’t Look Up (2021)

In Adam McKay’s satirical comedy-drama “Don’t Look Up,” Grande plays Riley Bina, a pop star who is recruited by the government to help warn the world about an impending comet. Although her role is relatively small, it is memorable and impactful. Grande’s performance as Riley Bina adds a layer of authenticity to the film, given her real-life status as a pop icon. Her presence in the movie, alongside stars like Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence, demonstrated her ability to hold her own among Hollywood heavyweights.

Beauty and the Beast (2017)

Grande lent her voice to the character of Belle in the 2017 live-action remake of Disney’s classic “Beauty and the Beast.” While the film received mixed reviews, Grande’s contribution to the soundtrack, particularly her duet with John Legend on the title track, was widely praised. Her involvement in this project reinforced her connection to beloved musical narratives and her capability to bring animated characters to life through song.

Victorious (2010-2013)

Grande’s breakout role came as Cat Valentine on the Nickelodeon sitcom “Victorious.” Running for four seasons, the show was a huge hit with teenagers and catapulted Grande into the limelight. Her portrayal of the quirky and lovable Cat Valentine made her a fan favorite and showcased her comedic timing and acting versatility. “Victorious” was a crucial stepping stone in Grande’s career, establishing her as a talented actress in addition to being a singer.

Sam & Cat (2013-2014)

Following the success of “Victorious,” Grande reprised her role as Cat Valentine in the spin-off “Sam & Cat.” Starring alongside Jennette McCurdy, the show followed the adventures of two unlikely friends who start a babysitting business. Although it was canceled after one season, Grande’s performance continued to endear her to fans and solidified her status as a versatile actress capable of leading a show.

Scream Queens (2015-2016)

Grande’s role as Chanel #2 in the Fox horror-comedy series “Scream Queens” was a departure from her previous work. Created by Ryan Murphy, the show starred Emma Roberts, Lea Michele, and Jamie Lee Curtis, with Grande playing a sorority sister in a series filled with dark humor and horror elements. Her performance added a new dimension to her acting repertoire, proving she could tackle edgier and more mature roles.

Conclusion

Ariana Grande’s journey from pop star to accomplished actress is a testament to her multifaceted talent. From her breakout role in “Victorious” to her anticipated performance in “Wicked,” Grande has continually expanded her artistic horizons. As she continues to take on diverse roles in film and television, there’s no doubt that Ariana Grande’s star will continue to shine brightly, both on stage and on screen.