Ariana grande caught up in awkward exchange with red carpet host at Golden Globes 2025

Ariana Grande’s Golden Globes interview turns awkward as red carpet host faces backlash for cringey antics.

Marc Malkin, Variety's red carpet host, faced criticism for an uncomfortable interview with Ariana Grande at the 2025 Golden Globes.

Malkin asked the Wicked star to sing on the spot, prompting Grande to politely decline, joking, "I’m still in Oz." Social media erupted, calling Malkin's request "cringey" and "unprofessional." The moment put a slight damper on Grande’s glamorous appearance and her nomination for Best Supporting Actress, leaving fans questioning the host’s approach to interviews.

Variety's @marcmalkin sings for Ariana Grande. https://t.co/MYdYslreH8 pic.twitter.com/XKDXSwrwov

— Variety (@Variety) January 6, 2025

 

Social media reactions included comments like "Stop making everyone uncomfortable by making them sing" and "Marc Malkin is so obnoxious."

Why is Marc Malkin so obnoxious? I'd flat out refuse to be interviewed by him if I was on the Golden Globes Red Carpet. Asking every person the same question and trying to force them to sing is tired.

— CJ Nelson (@High_OnMovies) January 6, 2025

Marc Malkin is so cringe. Stop making everyone uncomfortable by making them sing #GoldenGlobes @etnow @Variety

— Justin P (@just_in_print) January 6, 2025

 

Despite the awkward interaction, Grande shone in a vintage 1966 Givenchy dress that paid homage to Glinda and celebrated her Wicked nomination, which earned four Golden Globe nods.

The singer also reflected on the honor of working on Wicked and her emotional response to receiving a nomination alongside co-star Cynthia Erivo.