Adam Sandler and Ariana Grande reflect on emotional scenes, comedy, and mutual admiration

The stars discuss intense scenes, behind-the-scenes moments, and their appreciation for each other’s craft

Adam Sandler and Ariana Grande recently shared candid reflections on their new projects, discussing intense scenes, emotional preparation, and mutual admiration, in an interview with Variety and CNN

Grande expressed her admiration for Sandler’s work: “I’ve grown up worshiping all your movies.”

On performing emotional moments in Wicked: For Good, Grande explained: “I’m a crier in life, but it’s not as easy when you’re performing… I invented triggers for Glinda so that I didn’t have to touch on my own, because certain themes in this film are so adjacent to my life.”

Sandler reflected on his approach to high-stakes scenes: “I don’t want to let down the crew that’s working hard… I didn’t want to blow what’s written.”

Grande praised Sandler’s consistency: “It’s so beautiful to know that you still experience that, even though you have had such an iconic legacy of doing that beautifully every single time.”

 

 

 

 

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On the emotional resonance of their performances, Sandler said: “Noah Baumbach had a real orchestra in this theater, playing the real score of our movie… It rocked me, knowing that my character was part of [George Clooney’s character’s] life and what he meant to me.”

Grande also highlighted Sandler’s comedic depth: “All your iconic comedic performances also hold so much truth in them. The Waterboy is so gut-wrenching.”

The actors shared anecdotes about the physical demands of acting. Grande said, “I have never in my life felt anything like finally getting that call,” while Sandler recalled, “I’ve come home massive bruises… I had an entire bicep of a bruise that lasted maybe two weeks.”

Sandler reflected on his craft: “When I get a script, I write down everything my character’s thinking, everything he’s been through before and everything that he’s worried about in the future. I always do my homework, the way you do.”

Grande added, “The whole journey? Five years. There was a lot of retraining my voice… My teacher, Nancy Banks, was incredible. She’s a healer more than anything.”

On a lighter note, Sandler joked about animals: “I think they are talking. I think we’re not listening enough,” and Grande replied, “Exactly. Do you want an ‘accident’?”

Through candid reflections and shared stories, Sandler and Grande revealed the intensity, joy, and craft behind their performances, showcasing their mutual respect and admiration.