Ariana Grande Wows with Humor and Gratitude at Palm Springs Film Festival

Ariana Grande made a memorable appearance at the 2025 Palm Springs International Film Festival, accepting the Rising Star Award with her signature blend of humor and heartfelt gratitude. The award was presented by her friend and comedic icon, Jennifer Coolidge.

Grande, 31, couldn’t resist poking fun at her age while expressing her surprise at being labeled a "rising star." She quipped, "I thought I'd be hearing 'slightly withering star' or 'drooping star' by now," prompting laughter from the audience. Grande also joked about her "two friends," Botox and Juvederm, adding, "Thank you for keeping me youthful!"

In her speech, the pop star-turned-actress praised Coolidge as a "comedic genius" who had been a lifelong inspiration. Grande also expressed gratitude to Wicked director Jon M. Chu, calling him her "fearless leader," and to co-star Cynthia Erivo, whom she described as her "brilliant sister."

Playing Glinda the Good in Wicked: Part One has been a transformative experience for Grande, who reflected on how comedy shaped her early life. "I learned early on that laughter is one of our greatest escapes," she shared, recalling how she entertained her family as a child in Boca Raton, Florida. "After years of focusing on music, I missed that feeling. This role feels like the start of a new chapter."

Grande’s performance in Wicked: Part One has already garnered critical acclaim, earning her nominations for the Golden Globes and Critics Choice Awards. The film, directed by Chu, stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West. Its sequel, Wicked: For Good, is set for release on November 21.

Festival Chairman Nachhattar Singh Chandi praised Grande’s transition to acting, calling her a "multifaceted and undeniable talent." He added, "This is just the beginning of many accolades she will achieve in her acting career."

The event also honored several Hollywood heavyweights, including Angelina Jolie (Maria), Nicole Kidman (Babygirl), Timothée Chalamet (A Complete Unknown), and Adrien Brody (The Brutalist).

Wicked: Part One is now playing in theaters.