A surprising decision came down during the final editing of the blockbuster film, *Wicked*: a passionate scene between Ariana Grande and Jonathan Bailey’s characters was deemed too intense and ultimately cut from the theatrical release.
The film portrays a complex love triangle, with Fiyero, played by Bailey, initially engaged to Glinda, portrayed by Grande, but ultimately drawn to Glinda’s ostracized friend, Elphaba. The filmmakers worried a particularly intimate moment between Fiyero and Glinda would undermine the emotional weight of his final choice.
According to co-writer Dana Fox, the scene was “romantic and beautiful,” but presented a problem. It risked making Fiyero and Glinda’s connection feel *too* real, potentially alienating audiences when he ultimately chose Elphaba. The filmmakers feared viewers wouldn’t accept the heartbreak if the initial romance felt undeniably genuine.
“It was too adorable that you simply couldn’t handle it,” Fox explained. The cut was a strategic move to preserve the intended emotional arc of the story, ensuring audiences remained invested in the central relationship between Elphaba and Fiyero.
However, the film wasn’t entirely devoid of romantic tension. A separate scene between Elphaba and Fiyero sparked conversation among viewers, particularly parents. The sequence, featuring a kiss and an implied continuation, pushed the boundaries of what many expected from a PG-rated movie.
Social media quickly lit up with reactions, with many commenting on the scene’s surprising level of intimacy. Viewers noted the filmmakers’ attempts to navigate the delicate balance between romance and maintaining a family-friendly rating.
Adding to the buzz, Elphaba’s outfit during the scene – specifically a now-famous cardigan – became an instant internet sensation. Fans dubbed it the “sex cardigan,” praising its unexpected allure and demanding its mass production.
The cardigan’s popularity has even reached the fashion world, with *Vogue* declaring it a “holy grail” item. What began as a subtle detail in a fantasy film has unexpectedly become a cultural touchstone, proving the power of a single, memorable garment.
