WTF with Marc Maron: Episode 1616 - Ariana Grande

Release Date: February 10, 2025

In Episode 1616 of the "WTF with Marc Maron" podcast, host Marc Maron engages in a deep and revealing conversation with global pop sensation and acclaimed actress Ariana Grande. This extensive discussion traverses Ariana's journey from her early beginnings in musical theater to her ascent as one of the world's most influential artists, her foray into acting with the Oscar-nominated film "Wicked," and her approaches to mental health and personal boundaries in the high-pressure entertainment industry.

1. Introduction to Ariana Grande

[12:55-14:00]

Marc Maron opens the episode by expressing his admiration for Ariana Grande's extraordinary talent, likening her gift to something "from outer space." He highlights her position as one of the biggest global pop musicians and acknowledges her recent success in acting, notably her Oscar nomination for her role in "Wicked."

Notable Quote:

Marc Maron [12:55]: "Ariana Grande is here today, only one of the biggest stars in the world."

2. Early Career and Musical Beginnings

[14:00-19:00]

Ariana delves into her passion for singing from a young age, influenced by a household filled with divas like Judy Garland, Madonna, and Barbra Streisand. She recounts her first significant break at age eight, singing the National Anthem, and her experiences in Broadway's "13," where she met her best friend and fellow cast member, Aaron.

Notable Quote:

Ariana Grande [14:21]: "I was singing from the moment I could speak. I don't remember a time that I wasn't singing."

3. Transition to Music and Record Deal

[19:00-30:00]

Balancing her acting career on Nickelodeon's "Victorious" and "Sam & Cat," Ariana simultaneously pursued her music career. She discusses signing with Republic Records at 17 and working with legendary producer Max Martin. Ariana emphasizes her focus on authentic artistic expression over commercial success, highlighting her collaborative spirit and dedication to her craft.

Notable Quote:

Ariana Grande [44:18]: "I felt like Republic was just the perfect home for me. I just really felt understood."

4. Creative Process and Collaboration

[30:00-40:00]

Ariana elaborates on her creative process, particularly her role as a vocal producer and her enjoyment in arranging harmonies. She praises Max Martin for his genius and egoless collaboration, describing their work together as a "beautiful dance." This synergy has been pivotal in shaping her sound and maintaining artistic integrity.

Notable Quote:

Ariana Grande [53:40]: "He's such an art forward, but it's not economics person. He's an egoless person."

5. Acting in "Wicked" and Emotional Preparation

[40:00-60:00]

Transitioning to her acting career, Ariana discusses her role as Glinda in the film adaptation of "Wicked." She shares the intense preparation required, including three months of vocal coaching to master the operatic demands of the character. Ariana reflects on the emotional depth of portraying Glinda, emphasizing the importance of separating her personal experiences from her character to maintain authenticity.

Notable Quote:

Ariana Grande [61:33]: "I trained with Eric Vitro, my vocal coach, for three months before my first audition, so that I could sound like an authentic coloratura soprano."

6. Building Strong Relationships and Team Support

[60:00-70:00]

Ariana highlights the significance of building a supportive network, especially through her collaboration with co-star Cynthia Erivo. Their mutual commitment to maintaining a safe and trusting environment was crucial in navigating the challenges of filming "Wicked." Ariana also touches on the rigorous demands of the shoot, including long days and emotional strains, underscoring the importance of camaraderie and professional support.

Notable Quote:

Ariana Grande [68:57]: "We just got very real right away. I want you to know there's nothing that you can't talk to me about."

7. Mental Health, Boundaries, and Coping with Fame

[70:00-80:00]

Ariana candidly discusses the pressures of fame, including managing social media scrutiny and tabloid invasions. She advocates for the integration of mental health support in entertainment contracts, emphasizing the necessity of therapy for artists navigating the relentless spotlight. Ariana shares her strategies for maintaining personal boundaries, such as fostering normalcy through routine and seeking genuine human connections outside her celebrity persona.

Notable Quote:

Ariana Grande [74:38]: "Choosing this life is a tricky one. I'm lucky that I have so much love to cushion me when I feel like it's the weight of it."

8. Embracing Artistic Vulnerability and Personal Growth

[80:00-79:40]

The conversation culminates with Ariana reflecting on the balance between artistic vulnerability and personal resilience. She underscores the importance of intention and perspective in creating meaningful art, advocating for authenticity over mere ambition. Ariana celebrates the deep connections she forms with her fans and peers, viewing these relationships as the anchors that sustain her through the tumultuous waves of fame.

Notable Quote:

Ariana Grande [75:46]: "Art comes from some sort of soulful place. And you're a vulnerable person to choose to choose art."

Conclusion

Marc Maron's session with Ariana Grande offers an intimate glimpse into the life of an artist who navigates immense fame while striving to maintain authenticity and personal well-being. Ariana's journey from Broadway to global superstardom, coupled with her dedication to mental health and genuine human connections, provides invaluable insights into the complexities of modern celebrity life.

Final Notable Quote:

Marc Maron [79:17]: "That was the first text."

This episode serves as a testament to Ariana Grande's multifaceted talent and her unwavering commitment to her art and personal integrity. Listeners are left inspired by her resilience and grounded approach to navigating the highs and lows of a flourishing career in the entertainment industry.