Ariana Grande's Viral Marketing Mishap: The 'Wicked' Lyric Debate That Has Fans Talking

Marketing Blunders in the Spotlight

As the highly anticipated Wicked movie gears up for its release, it has faced scrutiny due to some marketing missteps. Notably, an official teaser featuring Ariana Grande has ignited discussions among fans regarding a lyric discrepancy.

The Lyric Controversy

In a clip shared on the Wicked Instagram account, Ariana Grande performs her rendition of "Popular". The teaser highlights the lyrics, specifically the phrase, "proper poise". Grande quickly responded via her own Instagram, clarifying, "it's 'ploys'!!!!! i love you." This light-hearted correction has not dampened the debate, as some fans argue that the original lyrics do indeed say "poise". This is further complicated by video footage of Kristin Chenoweth from the stage musical, where many swear they hear the word "poise".

Official Sheet Music Supports Grande

Adding to the confusion, the Official Wicked Vocal and Piano Book confirms that the correct lyric is "ploys", backing up Grande's assertion.

A Bigger Blunder

While the lyric confusion is a minor issue, it's worth noting that the Wicked marketing team faced a much larger blunder recently. Mattel’s official tie-in dolls were recalled after they included a URL leading to an adult film studio instead of the movie's promotional page. This blunder prompted a public apology from Mattel, highlighting the importance of accuracy in marketing.

Upcoming Release

Directed by Jon M. Chu, Wicked is set to hit theaters on November 22, 2024, with its sequel scheduled for November 21, 2025. The film features a star-studded cast, including Cynthia Erivo alongside Grande, promising a captivating adaptation of the beloved stage musical.