Cynthia Erivo Intervenes After Fan Grabs Ariana Grande at Wicked: For Good Premiere in Singapore
Ariana Grande experienced an alarming encounter at the Wicked: For Good premiere in Singapore when a man broke through the fan line and grabbed her during the event’s yellow-carpet arrivals. The incident, which occurred as the cast greeted fans outside the venue, prompted a swift response from co-star Cynthia Erivo, who intervened before security personnel reacted.
Grande, who was walking the carpet alongside the film’s ensemble, was approached by a man later identified as Johnson Wen, an Australian resident known online for repeatedly breaching security at concerts and public events. In videos posted to social media, Wen can be seen rushing toward Grande, grabbing her shoulders, and pulling her into an unsolicited embrace. Grande appeared visibly startled as Erivo immediately pushed the man away and stepped between him and her co-star, ensuring Grande could retreat to safety with her team.
Security removed Wen moments later, but Erivo continued checking on Grande as she was escorted off the carpet by her publicist. Representatives for Grande did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Wen, who goes by “Pyjama Man” on social media, has gained notoriety for similar disruptions at high-profile events, including performances by Katy Perry, the Weeknd, and the Chainsmokers. On his Instagram account, where he posted footage of the Singapore incident, he referred to Grande as “the Queen” and thanked her for allowing him to “jump” with her on the carpet. Comments on the post were later restricted as fans began criticizing his behavior and expressing concern for Grande’s safety.
Wen’s account also documents a pattern of public disturbances unrelated to celebrity events, ranging from interruptions in libraries to staged disruptions in shopping centers. His sudden physical approach toward Grande prompted swift backlash from fans and industry observers, many arguing that his continued access to large public gatherings reflects a broader issue with event security protocols.
The incident comes after Grande addressed tensions with fans earlier in the week. Following her announcement that she would miss the Wicked premiere in Brazil due to uncontrollable flight delays, some social media users expressed frustration. Grande responded with a statement urging fans not to direct hostility toward her or the cast, noting that safety concerns should never be taken lightly. “No matter how upset or disappointed you are,” she wrote, “please do not wish danger on us or assume that we didn’t try.”
Erivo’s quick intervention in Singapore has drawn praise from fans and attendees, many describing her reaction as instinctive and protective. The actress, who stars opposite Grande as Elphaba in the upcoming film adaptation, remained composed as she removed the man from the singer and signaled for security to step in.
Following the incident, both actors were escorted out of the event without further interaction with fans. Video from the premiere shows Grande and Erivo leaving directly for their vehicle as the crowd looked on, suggesting heightened caution as the promotional tour continues.
The Wicked: For Good premiere tour will conclude with an event in New York on Monday, where increased security measures are expected.
