Ariana Grande is a name synonymous with chart-topping hits, powerful vocals, and a distinct pop sound that has defined a generation. However, her talents extend beyond the realm of music. Ariana Grande Movies: With a background in theater and television, Ariana Grande has also made notable contributions to the world of film. Let’s explore her journey through the movies and see how she has captivated audiences with her performances on the big screen.

1. The Early Days: Broadway Beginnings and Nickelodeon Stardom

Before Ariana Grande became a household name in music, she started her career in theater. At the age of 15, she landed a role in the Broadway musical “13,” where she played the character Charlotte. This role showcased her singing and acting abilities, setting the stage for her future endeavors in entertainment.

Her big break came with the Nickelodeon television series “Victorious,” where she played Cat Valentine. This role not only highlighted her acting chops but also allowed her to share her musical talents with a broader audience. The success of “Victorious” led to a spin-off, “Sam & Cat,” further cementing her status as a versatile performer.

2. Swindle (2013)

Suggested Read: Ariana Grande Discography: A Journey Through Her Musical Evolution

One of Ariana Grande’s early ventures into film was the Nickelodeon television movie “Swindle.” Released in 2013, this family comedy revolves around a group of friends who band together to retrieve a valuable baseball card from a swindler. Ariana played Amanda Benson, a skilled gymnast who is part of the heist team. Her performance in “Swindle” demonstrated her ability to transition from television to film seamlessly, maintaining her charm and charisma on screen.

In “Swindle,” Amanda Benson, played by Ariana Grande, is integral to the plot. The movie revolves around a heist plan to recover a valuable baseball card that was unfairly taken from the main character, Griffin. Amanda’s role as a gymnast adds a unique dimension to the team’s dynamics, as her athletic skills are crucial in navigating the obstacles they face. This movie provided a platform for Ariana to showcase her versatility as an actress, effortlessly blending her character’s physical prowess with comedic elements.

3. Underdogs (2013)

In the same year, Ariana Grande lent her voice to the animated film “Underdogs.” This Argentine-Spanish animated sports comedy features a young boy named Amadeo who must save his town from a tyrant with the help of his magically animated foosball players. Ariana voiced Laura, Amadeo’s childhood friend and love interest. The film allowed Ariana to explore voice acting, adding another dimension to her versatile career.

“Underdogs,” also known as “The Unbeatables” in some regions, showcases Ariana’s ability to connect with audiences through voice alone. Her character, Laura, is the moral compass of the story, providing emotional support to Amadeo. Ariana’s vocal performance brings warmth and sincerity to Laura, making her a beloved character in this heartwarming tale. The movie’s unique blend of animation and sports elements was well-received, with Ariana’s contribution being a highlight for many viewers.

4. Zoolander 2 (2016)

Ariana Grande’s first foray into mainstream Hollywood came with a cameo in the comedy film “Zoolander 2.” Although her role was brief, it was memorable. She appeared as a latex-clad starlet in a risqué scene with Justin Bieber, showcasing her willingness to take on diverse and unexpected roles. This appearance hinted at her potential for more significant roles in the film industry.

“Zoolander 2,” a sequel to the cult classic “Zoolander,” featured a host of celebrity cameos, with Ariana’s being one of the most talked-about. Her role, though small, demonstrated her comedic timing and her ability to stand out even in a star-studded cast. The scene with Justin Bieber added a layer of humor and surprise, showing that Ariana was not afraid to push boundaries and take risks with her roles.

5. Hairspray Live! (2016)

In December 2016, Ariana Grande starred in the NBC live musical television special “Hairspray Live!” Based on the 2002 Broadway musical “Hairspray,” this production featured Ariana as Penny Pingleton, the best friend of the protagonist Tracy Turnblad. Her performance received praise for her comedic timing and vocal prowess, proving her ability to handle both singing and acting in a live production.

“Hairspray Live!” was a significant milestone in Ariana’s career, as it combined her love for musical theater with live television. Playing Penny Pingleton, Ariana brought a quirky charm to the role, capturing the essence of the character while adding her own flair. Her musical numbers, including “Without Love” and “Run and Tell That,” were standout moments that showcased her exceptional vocal abilities. This production reaffirmed Ariana’s status as a versatile performer capable of excelling in multiple entertainment formats.

6. The Prom (2020)

Ariana Grande was initially cast in the Netflix musical comedy film “The Prom,” directed by Ryan Murphy. However, due to scheduling conflicts, she was unable to participate in the project. Despite this setback, her initial involvement in such a high-profile project underscored her growing reputation in the film industry and her potential to take on significant roles in future projects.

“The Prom” is a story about a group of washed-up Broadway actors who travel to a small town to support a high school girl banned from bringing her girlfriend to prom. Ariana was set to play the role of Alyssa Greene, the closeted girlfriend of the protagonist. Although she ultimately couldn’t participate, her consideration for the role demonstrated her commitment to tackling diverse and meaningful characters. The film, released in December 2020, received positive reviews and highlighted the increasing trend of musicals finding success on streaming platforms.

7. Don’t Look Up (2021)

In the star-studded film “Don’t Look Up,” Ariana Grande plays the role of Riley Bina, a pop star who is part of the satirical comedy about two astronomers attempting to warn humanity about an approaching comet that will destroy Earth. Directed by Adam McKay and featuring an ensemble cast including Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence, Ariana’s performance added a layer of humor and star power to the film. Her character’s song in the movie, “Just Look Up,” became a highlight.

“Don’t Look Up” is a satirical take on society’s response to global crises, blending humor with a poignant message. Ariana’s character, Riley Bina, is a pop culture icon whose public breakup becomes a media sensation, overshadowing the impending disaster. Her song “Just Look Up,” performed with Kid Cudi, serves as both a comedic and critical element in the film. Ariana’s portrayal of Riley added depth to the satire, highlighting her ability to balance humor with a more serious underlying message.

8. Wicked (Upcoming)

Although it hasn’t yet been released, Ariana Grande is set to star in the upcoming movie adaptation of the Broadway musical “Wicked.” She will play Glinda, alongside Cynthia Erivo, who will be playing Elphaba. Since her role was announced, it has been revealed that the adaptation will be released in two parts – with one film in 2024 and the other in 2025. This role is particularly significant, as it will allow Ariana to showcase her vocal talents and acting skills in a major film production, adding to her already impressive portfolio.

“Wicked” is one of the most anticipated musical adaptations in recent years. The story, which serves as a prequel to “The Wizard of Oz,” explores the unlikely friendship between Glinda the Good Witch and Elphaba, who becomes the Wicked Witch of the West. Ariana’s casting as Glinda has generated significant buzz, with fans eagerly awaiting her interpretation of the beloved character. Her involvement in such a high-profile project underscores her continued rise in the entertainment industry and her potential to leave a lasting impact on both the musical and film worlds.

Complete Filmography

Here is a complete list of movies Ariana Grande has been involved in:

1. Swindle (2013): A Nickelodeon television movie where she plays Amanda Benson.
2. Underdogs (2013): Voicing the character of Laura in this animated sports comedy.
3. Zoolander 2 (2016): A cameo appearance as a latex-clad starlet.
4. Hairspray Live! (2016): Starring as Penny Pingleton in this live musical television special.
5. The Prom (2020): Initially cast but did not appear due to scheduling conflicts.
6. Don’t Look Up (2021): Playing Riley Bina, a pop star in this satirical comedy.
7. Wicked (Upcoming): Set to play Glinda in the two-part adaptation releasing in 2024 and 2025.

Conclusion:Ariana Grande Movies

Ariana Grande’s journey in the film industry is a testament to her versatility and talent as an entertainer. From her early days on Broadway and Nickelodeon to her memorable appearances in movies and live television specials, she has proven herself as a multi-faceted performer capable of captivating audiences in various mediums.

As she continues to take on new challenges and expand her horizons, there’s no doubt that Ariana Grande will leave an indelible mark on the film industry, just as she has in the world of music. Whether through voice acting, live performances, or significant roles in major film productions, her star power and charisma will continue to shine brightly on the big screen.