Emotional Conversations: Ariana Grande and Adam Sandler Discuss Acting Challenges and Awards Buzz

Ariana Grande and Adam Sandler recently sat down for a conversation as part of Variety & CNN’s Actors on Actors series. They discussed the challenges of filming emotionally charged scenes and shared their experiences with crying on set. Grande praised Sandler's performance in Jay Kelly, admitting that she cried multiple times while watching him. Sandler, in turn, revealed his approach to tapping into his emotions for a role and his excitement about being part of the film.
Both Grande and Sandler have new films that are generating awards buzz: Grande for her role in Wicked: For Good and Sandler in Netflix's Jay Kelly. Sandler expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work with Grande and his pride in being part of the film. Grande, on the other hand, received an Oscar nomination for her portrayal of Glinda in Wicked part 1 and expressed her gratitude for the recognition.
Wicked part 2, the sequel to the first film, was released in November and continues the story from the play's second act. While For Good received mixed reviews, Grande and Cynthia Erivo's performances have been praised. If they receive nominations at the upcoming Academy Awards, they will join a select group of performers recognized twice for the same role. Erivo will also participate in Actors on Actors with Hugh Jackman, continuing the series' tradition of candid and insightful conversations between Hollywood stars.
The Actors on Actors series, now airing on CNN in partnership with Variety, promises to deliver more revealing and intimate moments with A-list celebrities. The upcoming episodes will feature conversations between Julia Roberts and Sean Penn, Gwyneth Paltrow and Jacob Elordi, Jonathan Bailey and David Corenswet, Brendan Fraser and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and more. Fans can look forward to engaging discussions and behind-the-scenes insights from their favorite actors.