No, Ariana Grande wasn't paid more for Wicked than Cynthia Erivo

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo were reportedly paid the same for their starring roles in Wicked.

Sign up for the Out Newsletter to keep up with what's new in LGBTQ+ culture and entertainment — delivered three times a week straight (well…) to your inbox!

As the film broke box-office records over the weekend, rumors began swirling about how much the two stars of the film made. Now, Universal Pictures has put the speculation to bed.

"Reports of pay disparity between Cynthia and Ariana are completely false and based on internet fodder," a Universal spokesperson told The Hollywood Reporter. "The women received equal pay for their work on Wicked."

How much was Cynthia Erivo paid for Wicked?

Cynthia Erivo in 'Wicked.'Universal Pictures

Several social media posts and videos — most notably on TikTok and Reddit — alleged that Erivo was paid $1 million to star in the film. Those same posts (and even news outlets, such as a report from The New York Post) speculated that Grande was paid $15 million for the film, which resulted in a big outrage from fans.

While this spokesperson for Universal Pictures did not clarify how much money Erivo and Grande were actually paid, the statement did make it clear that both actress were "paid the same" to do Wicked.

How much money has Wicked made at the box office?

(L-R) Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande in the 'Wicked' movie poster. Universal Pictures

During its opening weekend alone, Wicked: Part I grossed $164 million globally and $114 million domestically. This solidified the Jon M. Chu-directed project, which opened in theaters on Friday, November 22, as the no. 1 movie in the world.

Wicked: Part I is now playing in theaters.