Ariana Grande jokes about Botox and aging while accepting “Rising Star” Award for 'Wicked'

At 31, Ariana Grande accepted the “Rising Star” Award at Palm Springs Film Awards, embracing her comedic side.

Ariana Grande accepted the “Rising Star” Award at the 36th Palm Springs International Film Awards for her breakout role as Glinda in Wicked. Reflecting on the irony of the award, the 31-year-old pop icon joked, “I never thought at the age of 31 I’d be hearing the words ‘Rising Star’ again, so I want to start by thanking my good friends Botox and Juvederm.”

Grande credited Wicked as a new chapter in her career, explaining, “Comedy is just another way of telling the truth… Glinda the good… makes light out of darkness.” She expressed gratitude for her co-star Cynthia Erivo, director Jon M. Chu, and the lessons she learned from embodying her character over three years.

Jennifer Coolidge, a friend and inspiration to Grande, presented the award with her signature humor, quipping, “Rising star? Hasn’t Ariana Grande already risen?” She added, “I do have a theory: Ariana’s actually a very old person with really good skin. She could be 90 years old, who knows?” Grande returned the admiration, calling Coolidge’s comedic brilliance an inspiration throughout her life.

The event, known for drawing Hollywood’s elite, honored several luminaries, including Angelina Jolie, Nicole Kidman, and Denis Villeneuve. Grande’s recognition alongside such talents marks her continued evolution from pop superstar to critically acclaimed actress.