Ariana Grande bodyguarded by Cynthia Erivo at Singapore Wicked premiere

Cynthia Erivo proved she’s truly Ariana Grande’s “friend for good” after stepping in to protect the pop star during the Wicked: For Good premiere in Singapore on November 13.

The Tony-winning actress reacted swiftly when a fan breached security barriers and rushed toward Grande while the two were walking the yellow carpet alongside co-star Michelle Yeoh.

In viral clips circulating on social media, Grande appeared cheerful, waving and blowing kisses to fans when a man suddenly jumped over the barricade, wrapped his arm around her, and began jumping up and down. Erivo immediately intervened, pulling the fan away from Grande before security restrained the individual. Despite the scare, both stars continued down the carpet after a brief moment of reassurance.

The fan, known online as “Pyjama Man,” later confirmed on Instagram that he had been arrested but subsequently released. “I am free after being arrested,” he wrote in a Story post following the incident.

Grande and Erivo have previously spoken about their strong bond while filming Wicked, often praising their mutual support on and off set. During an April appearance at a Canva event, Erivo described their connection as “a wonderful synergy” where both artists instinctively understood each other’s needs. Grande echoed the sentiment, telling The New York Times that she felt “held and supported every step of the way.”

The shocking moment at the premiere underscored that connection once again—showing that, beyond the stage and screen, Cynthia Erivo is not only Ariana Grande’s co-star but also her real-life protector and friend.