Ariana Grande’s Transformation: Authenticity, Healing, and a Deeper Connection
In a candid interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Ariana Grande opens up about her evolving career, embracing her true self, and the cathartic journey she has undertaken.
Embracing Authenticity: Unveiling the Real Ariana
Grande reflects on her career trajectory, acknowledging the distance she has come from her past pop star persona. "This feeling that people are seeing me – like, actually me – it’s so silly because I’ve been seen for so long, but it feels like it’s maybe for the first time and it’s just different," she confides.
The shift in her public image stems from her transition into the role of Glinda in the upcoming "Wicked" movie adaptation. This return to her theater roots has ignited a deep sense of fulfillment and self-discovery.
The Healing Power of Transformation
"At a certain point, you get tired of that (pop star) character, because it is a character," Grande explains. "There are pieces of you and your story that are woven throughout your songwriting, but then, because of the way it travels and becomes sensationalized, it gets away from you."
Stepping into the role of Glinda has provided a sanctuary for Grande, allowing her to shed her pop star guise and reconnect with her true self. "I think that’s why it’s been such a deeply healing gift to disappear into this character – to take off one mask and put on another."
The profound impact of this transformation extends beyond the stage. Grande’s performance as Glinda has earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
Stripping Away the Trappings: Finding Solace in Simplicity
The ability to strip away the trappings of pop superstardom has been instrumental in Grande’s self-discovery. "It became this beautiful evolution of getting to know myself beneath it all. I was like, ‘Oh my goodness, I love this person underneath the drag,’" she shares.
This process has fostered a deeper appreciation for her art and the person she is beyond the spotlight.
The Nickelodeon Era and the Toll of Child Stardom
Grande also delves into her time as a child star on Nickelodeon’s "Victorious" and the tabloid rumors that plagued her rise to stardom. Reflecting on the darker aspects of the industry, she expresses concern for young performers and the need for robust support systems.
"I have dreams of a world where you’re not allowed to enter the entertainment industry without having it written in your contract, whether it’s with the record label or the production company, that there will be therapy multiple times a week and a support system," Grande says.
A Storied Singing Career: Defying Gravity and Breaking Hearts
Post-"Victorious," Grande embarked on a remarkable singing career, captivating audiences with her gravity-defying vocal runs. From her breakout single "The Way" to heartfelt ballads like "Into You," she has earned multiple Grammy wins and topped the charts countless times.
Building Resilience: A Path to Self-Protection
Despite her immense success, Grande has faced relentless scrutiny and tabloid fodder throughout her career. To navigate these challenges, she has cultivated a strong support system and developed a thicker skin.
"It was just a crazy time," she recalls. "All I wanted was to sing and for it to be about my work, and it felt like the more successful the music became, the more people tried to destroy me."
While the noise can never be entirely eliminated, Grande has learned to filter it out and protect her artistic integrity. "It’ll never be unpainful," she says. "But also, I walk with the awareness that I’m an artist and this is a path that I’ve chosen, and so I just try to protect myself so that I never start to resent the art.”
Conclusion: A Testament to Authenticity and Perseverance
Ariana Grande’s journey is a testament to the power of embracing authenticity, seeking healing through transformation, and building resilience in the face of adversity. Her story inspires us to shed societal expectations, discover our true selves, and pursue our passions with unwavering determination.
