Ariana Grande's Exciting Projects and Controversial Moments at the 2026 Critics' Choice Awards
The 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards took place in Santa Monica, California, honoring the best achievements in film and television from 2025. Hosted by comedian Chelsea Handler, the event saw big names like Leonardo DiCaprio, Ethan Hawke, and Benicio del Toro in attendance. One Battle After Another won Best Picture, with Paul Thomas Anderson winning Best Director. Timothée Chalamet and Jessie Buckley won Best Actor and Best Actress, respectively.
Behind the scenes, an interaction between Ariana Grande and Leighton Meester caught the attention of viewers. Ariana expressed her excitement upon seeing Leighton, who responded by seemingly imitating Ariana's enthusiastic reaction. This led to speculation that Leighton was mocking the Grammy winner, with some viewers finding Ariana's reaction exaggerated or insincere.
Ariana Grande discussed her involvement in the musical Wicked, stating that she was proud of the project but ready to focus on her music career. She is gearing up for her Eternal Sunshine Tour, her first concert tour in six years, which will feature 41 shows across North America and the UK. Ariana emphasized the importance of balancing her music career with upcoming acting projects.
Ariana Grande's upcoming projects include voicing a character in an animated film based on Dr. Seuss' book, Oh, the Places You'll Go! She will also star in Focker In-Law, a film in the Meet the Parents series, and appear in the thirteenth season of American Horror Story. The pop star is committed to continuing her music career while exploring new acting opportunities.