Pathostheatre News
Drew Barrymore’s Magical Gesture Surprising Ariana Grande with Glinda’s Original Wand
Dec
Drew Barrymore once again showcased her flair for unforgettable moments by surprising Ariana Grande with a piece of cinematic history on The Drew Barrymore Show. As part of promoting Grande’s upcoming role as Glinda the Good Witch in the film adaptation of Wicked, Barrymore presented the pop star with the original Glinda wand from the 1939 classic, The Wizard of Oz. This rare artifact, originally wielded by Billie Burke, brought Grande to the verge of tears in a heartwarming segment that has captivated audiences worldwide.
A Legendary Artifact with Deep Roots in Cinema
The wand, originally part of the Smithsonian collection before transitioning to private ownership, represents one of Hollywood’s most cherished symbols. Drew Barrymore revealed that her team had to coordinate extensively to secure the wand for this special occasion. Grande, visibly overwhelmed, joked about “running off with it” as she admired the artifact. The wand’s magical allure connects not just to the Wizard of Oz legacy but also to the broader narrative of how such props immortalize cinematic storytelling.
Ariana Grande’s Emotional Connection to Glinda
Grande, who stars as Glinda in Wicked, has often spoken about her deep connection to the role. Her admiration for the character dates back to childhood, with memories of seeing the Broadway show inspiring her lifelong dream to step into Glinda’s shoes. During the show, Barrymore highlighted the significance of the wand as a bridge between Grande’s portrayal of Glinda and the legacy left by Billie Burke in the original Wizard of Oz.
Drew Barrymore: A Host Who Makes Magic Happen
Barrymore’s thoughtful surprise underscores her knack for creating magical moments on her talk show. Known for her personal and creative approach to guest interactions, Barrymore often brings a sense of intimacy and wonder to her segments. This particular surprise serves as a testament to her dedication to celebrating the achievements and dreams of her guests.
The Cultural Significance of Props in Filmmaking
Grande noted the emotional weight of props like the Glinda wand, which symbolize the transformative power of storytelling. As a star of Wicked, she emphasized how physical artifacts like wands and costumes ground actors in their roles, helping them connect deeply with their characters. The wand serves as a link between generations of actors and audiences, amplifying the timeless appeal of both Wicked and The Wizard of Oz.
A Celebration of Shared Legacies
This moment was not just about honoring Grande’s role in Wicked but also a tribute to the enduring cultural impact of The Wizard of Oz. By connecting two iconic adaptations through the wand, Barrymore reminded viewers of the shared magic that unites artists, films, and audiences across eras. The gesture reinforces the relevance of storytelling in bridging history with contemporary creative expressions.
This remarkable event exemplifies Drew Barrymore’s ability to merge entertainment with meaningful experiences, leaving a lasting impression on her guests and viewers alike.
From Pathostheatre