The Internet Is Holding Space for This 'Defying Gravity' 'Wicked' Meme

An Out reporter elicited a sweet, emotional response from Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, and their exchange took over social media

Out reporter Tracy E. Gilchrist was in the midst of an interview with Wicked stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, when Gilchrist revealed that LGBTQ people were responding to the “Defying Gravity” lyrics in a way that really moved Erivo. The heartfelt exchange then took over the internet.

“I’ve seen this week, people are taking the lyrics of ‘Defying Gravity’ and really holding space with that, and feeling power in that,” Gilchrist says to Erivo in a clip of the exchange.

The sentiment touched Erivo, and she responded, “I didn’t know that was happening.”

“That’s really powerful,” she added, looking over to her co-star, who then grabbed her finger in a show of support. “That’s what I wanted.”

Erivo looks back at Gilchrist, and says with a surprised, emotional voice, her hand on her chest, “I didn’t know that was happening.”

And then Gilchrist reveals: “I’ve seen it on a couple posts. I don’t know how widespread [it is].”

The exchange took over the internet, with fans reacting with bewilderment, amusement, and really just ran with it, all in good meme-worthy fun.

Gilchrist later clarified things for those who may have been confused by the interview via Out. “When I posed the question to Cynthia about people holding space with the lyrics to ‘Defying Gravity,’ it was two days after the election, and everyone I knew in the LGBTQ+ community was trying to make sense of what we might be facing. I loved her response, and I love that people are having a laugh, because I know I could use one about now.”

“I never considered I’d become a meme,” Gilchrist said regarding the clip going viral. “But as an unrepentant showqueen, I’m thrilled that it’s for something this campy, in response to a movie I love. Now go see Wicked!”