Cynthia Erivo is grateful for Ariana Grande’s casting as Glinda in “Wicked.”

“Thank God, because it wasn’t two women I auditioned with,” Erivo said. he told the New York Times When asked about the pop superstar’s reaction to being cast.

The “We Can’t Be Friends” singer gave a similar answer in the interview published Wednesday.

Grande recalled saying “Thank God” when she and Erivo were respectfully announced as Glinda and Elphaba.

Grande, 31, and Erivo, 37, starred in the movie “Wicked” in 2021 and quickly formed a close bond once production began.

During their conversation with the New York Times, they recalled spending the days after filming hanging out at each other’s houses. shopping and even getting a tattoo.

“I think that was one of the parts of this experience that I treasured the most: I felt held and like I had a friend every step of the way,” the “Positions” singer said.

“I’m really proud of us for how sincerely we took care of each other all this time.”

Grande also got emotional as she reflected on how the “Harriet” star helped her grow as a person.

“I feel truly inspired by her fierce ability to be honest and protect herself,” she said with tears in her eyes.

“When I used to sacrifice so much of myself, I’ve become more of an ally to myself just by being around him, and I really owe that to our friendship.”

Erivo shared a similar sentiment about Grande, saying that she helped her believe in herself.

“I don’t think it was until I met him that I thought, ‘Oh, I think I can have what I want in this life and get it the way I want,'” she said.

“He really held my hand through the whole process and wants this for me as much as I want it for myself.”

This isn’t the first time the duo has spoken positively about their friendship.

Erivo in October They announced their shooting deals to avoid drama While appearing on Scott Evans’ “House Guest” YouTube series.

“He and I thought we should work together. So we take turns talking on days when we have to say no a few times,” he explained. “Sometimes you say no. Sometimes I say no.”

“Between the two of us… we have built a true partnership.”

The “Victorious” alum as they walked the steps of the Met Gala together in May He praised Erivo for the way she “humanized” Elphaba in the movie.

“Wicked,” based on the long-running Broadway musical premiered in Sydney Sunday. The cast will celebrate its premiere in Los Angeles this weekend.

The movie will be released in theaters on November 22.