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The Ultimate Guide To Ariana Grande’s Explosive Film Career: 5 Projects That Will Redefine Her Legacy (2024–2028)

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As of December 20, 2025, Ariana Grande is no longer just a pop superstar; she has officially cemented her status as a major Hollywood film actress and a rising creative force behind the camera. Her highly anticipated, career-defining turn as Glinda in the two-part film adaptation of the beloved musical *Wicked* is the centerpiece of her cinematic expansion, with the first installment having already thrilled audiences and the second part set for release in late 2025. This pivot is more than just a temporary acting gig—it’s a long-term commitment that includes a major comedy franchise sequel, a reunion with a top-tier director, and a surprising debut as a co-director. The next few years promise to be a complete transformation of her public persona, moving from the world of chart-topping music to blockbuster cinema. This deep dive breaks down every confirmed and rumored film project on her slate, providing the most current details, co-stars, and release windows for her upcoming work through 2028.

Ariana Grande: A Quick Biography and Filmography Profile

Ariana Grande-Butera is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who rose to prominence on the Nickelodeon television series *Victorious* and its spin-off *Sam & Cat* before becoming one of the most streamed and influential pop artists of her generation. Her film career, while initially sporadic, is now taking center stage.

  • Full Name: Ariana Grande-Butera
  • Born: June 26, 1993 (Boca Raton, Florida)
  • Occupation: Singer, Songwriter, Actress, Producer, Director
  • Notable TV Roles: Cat Valentine in *Victorious* (2010–2013) and *Sam & Cat* (2013–2014)
  • Major Music Albums: *Yours Truly*, *My Everything*, *Dangerous Woman*, *Sweetener*, *Thank U, Next*, *Positions*, *Eternal Sunshine*
  • Previous Film Roles:
    • *Swindle* (2013) as Amanda Benson
    • *Zoolander 2* (2016) as Herself (Cameo)
    • *Don't Look Up* (2021) as Riley Bina
    • *Excuse Me, I Love You* (2020) as Herself (Concert Film)
  • Upcoming/Current Film Projects: *Wicked* (2024), *Wicked: For Good* (2025), *Brighter Days Ahead* (2025), *Focker In-Law* (2026), *Oh, the Places You'll Go!* (2028)

The Emerald City Takes Center Stage: The Two-Part Wicked Saga

Ariana Grande’s casting as Glinda Upland, the future Glinda the Good Witch, in the film adaptation of the Broadway juggernaut *Wicked* is arguably the most significant role of her career to date. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the cinematic event has been split into two massive films, allowing the filmmakers to fully explore the intricate narrative and score of the source material.

Wicked Part One (2024) and Wicked: For Good (2025)

The first part of the musical fantasy, simply titled *Wicked*, premiered in November 2024, introducing the world to the unlikely friendship between the misunderstood, green-skinned Elphaba Thropp (played by the phenomenal Cynthia Erivo) and the ambitious, popular Galinda.

The highly anticipated second film, *Wicked: For Good*, is scheduled to hit theaters on November 21, 2025, and is expected to delve deeper into Glinda’s transformation and character arc, a journey that sees her evolve from a self-absorbed student to the iconic Good Witch of the North.

Early buzz and reactions to Ariana Grande’s performance have been overwhelmingly positive. Critics and industry insiders who have seen early footage or screenings have praised her portrayal of Glinda’s initial bubbly, slightly ditzy exterior, noting the depth and complexity she brings to the role in the second installment. Her vocal performance, particularly on classic songs like "Popular" and "For Good," has been lauded for its clarity, emotional resonance, and respect for the musical theatre tradition. The sheer scale of the production, led by director Jon M. Chu, promises a visual spectacle that honors the original stage production while offering a fresh, cinematic experience.

The films boast an all-star supporting ensemble cast, adding significant star power and topical authority to the project. Key cast members include:

  • Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba Thropp (The Wicked Witch of the West)
  • Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero Tigelaar
  • Jeff Goldblum as The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
  • Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible
  • Ethan Slater as Boq
  • Marissa Bode as Nessarose Thropp

From Oz to the Fockers: Unexpected Comedic and Directorial Turns

Beyond the world of *Wicked*, Ariana Grande is making calculated moves to diversify her film portfolio, showcasing her versatility in both acting and behind-the-scenes roles. These projects prove her commitment to a multi-hyphenate career in Hollywood.

The Surprising Comedy Sequel: Focker In-Law (2026)

In a move that caught many fans off guard, Grande is joining the star-studded cast of *Focker In-Law*, the fourth installment in the beloved *Meet the Parents* comedy franchise. She will be playing the role of Olivia Jones, the fiancée of Greg Focker’s son, making her the future daughter-in-law of Ben Stiller’s iconic character.

This project, expected to be released in 2026, marks a significant departure from the musical fantasy genre and a return to pure comedy, a genre she successfully navigated in her early television career. Ben Stiller himself has reportedly praised Grande’s comedic timing and talent, a strong endorsement that suggests she will be a major highlight of the film. Her involvement adds a fresh, contemporary energy to the long-running series, ensuring its relevance to a new generation of moviegoers. The cast is expected to include franchise veterans like Stiller, Robert De Niro, and potentially others, creating a high-profile ensemble comedy.

A Creative Shift: Co-Directing and Writing with Brighter Days Ahead (2025)

Demonstrating her ambition to move beyond acting, Grande co-wrote and co-directed the 2025 short film *Brighter Days Ahead* alongside Christian Breslauer. This project is a musical science fiction short that accompanied the deluxe edition of her critically acclaimed album, *Eternal Sunshine*. The film is a personal and artistic endeavor, encompassing six songs from the deluxe album and allowing Grande to fully express her vision in a new medium. Her foray into directing is a clear signal of her long-term aspirations in the film industry, positioning her as a creative mind capable of shaping narratives, not just performing them. This short film explores themes related to her music, adding a layer of topical authority to her overall artistic output.

Looking Ahead: The Dr. Seuss Animated Musical (2028)

Ariana Grande's future film slate is rounded out by a highly-anticipated animated musical project, solidifying her creative partnership with *Wicked* director Jon M. Chu.

Oh, the Places You’ll Go! (2028)

The adaptation of the classic Dr. Seuss book, *Oh, the Places You’ll Go!*, is set to be an animated musical film, with Grande leading the voice cast. This reunion with director Jon M. Chu, who is also directing *Wicked*, underscores the trust and successful collaboration established on the massive musical project. The film is slated for a 2028 release and will feature songs written by the celebrated EGOT-winning songwriting duo, Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, known for their work on *La La Land* and *Dear Evan Hansen*. Grande will star alongside fellow Broadway alum and voice acting veteran Josh Gad, a pairing that ensures both vocal excellence and comedic chemistry. This project ensures that even after the *Wicked* saga concludes, Grande will remain a prominent figure in high-profile, music-driven cinematic events, bridging her world of pop music with the art of animated storytelling. Her involvement in such a positive, inspirational story reflects a careful curation of her public image and a commitment to family-friendly, high-quality entertainment.

ariana grande film
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