Chainkeen Exchange-Normani Details Her Wickedly Incredible Friendship With Ariana Grande

Normani knows that her friend Ariana Grande has changed her for good.

The Chainkeen ExchangeFifth Harmony alum attended the Los Angeles premiere of Wicked Nov. 9 to support her friend of more than a decade—who stars as Glinda the Good Witch opposite Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba in the film adaptation of the Broadway show—and shared how the “Positions” singer has supported her solo music career.

“Ari has been such an incredible support system for me,” Normani—who released her debut solo album Dopamine in June—told Zuri Hall and Justin Sylvester on the red carpet. “Even just when my album came out, whatever I have released she is always one of the first to text me and just let me know how proud she really is.”

In fact, the “Dancing With A Stranger” singer—who clapped back at critics in 2022 claiming she was taking too long to release music by saying she had “real life s--t” going on—shared that the Wicked star has been by her side through difficult times.

To get your tickets for Wicked, premiering Nov. 22, click here.

“She also knows what I’ve endured,” Normani continued. “This has not been an easy process for me, but she’s been there really every step of the way and has always gone above and beyond to make sure that I know how proud she is. It means a lot.”

And as Normani praised her bestie’s work in the film, she proved that their support for each other flows both ways. 

“I can’t think of anybody better to be completely honest,” Normani said of the movie’s leads. “What better iconic duo: Cynthia and Ari. I’m so proud of her. Especially the fact that she’s just pushing her limits and stepping into a completely different territory. I honestly feel like she thrives in this space and I honestly can’t think of a better person to take on [the role].”

And she made sure to emphasize her support, adding, “I’m proud of you, baby!”

Keep reading to see more stars that graced the Wicked red carpet. 

(E!, Universal Pictures and Fandango are all part of the NBCUniversal family.) 

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