The question, "Are Cynthia and Ariana vegan?" has captured public interest, particularly since the actresses were cast as the lead roles in the highly anticipated film adaptation of Wicked. Both stars have publicly spoken about their diets, confirming their long-standing commitment to veganism, which adds a layer of depth to their portrayals of Elphaba and Glinda. Their respective reasons for adopting this lifestyle are rooted in both personal health and ethical concerns, showcasing the multifaceted nature of a plant-based diet.
Ariana Grande's Vegan Journey
Ariana Grande, a long-time advocate for animal rights, made the switch to a vegan diet more than a decade ago. Her journey was driven by a deep love for animals and a desire for better health. She has consistently promoted a whole-food, plant-based approach, focusing on clean, simple ingredients.
The 2013 Decision
In 2013, Grande announced her 100% vegan journey on social media, inspired in part by watching the documentary Forks Over Knives. She has since spoken extensively about her choices, often emphasizing the health benefits she has experienced. Her trainer, Harley Pasternak, has also mentioned her preference for Japanese-inspired macrobiotic foods.
Ethical and Health Motivations
- Animal Welfare: Grande's most cited reason is her compassion for animals, famously stating, “I love animals more than I love most people, not kidding,” in 2014. She is also a vocal supporter of animal causes and has adopted many rescue dogs.
- Personal Health: Alongside her ethical convictions, Grande is a firm believer in the life-extending and happiness-boosting effects of a whole-foods, plant-based diet.
Controversies and Considerations
Grande's veganism has faced scrutiny over some non-dietary choices. Critics have pointed out instances of her wearing leather or other animal products. A notable incident involved her promotion of a Starbucks drink that contained non-vegan ingredients, highlighting the difference between a dietary choice and a comprehensive lifestyle for some observers.
Cynthia Erivo's Plant-Based Path
Like her co-star, Cynthia Erivo has also been a long-time vegan, adopting the diet for personal wellness reasons that greatly benefit her demanding career. Her path highlights how a plant-based diet can be a tool for managing specific health needs.
Health-Driven Motivation
Erivo transitioned to a plant-based diet around 2013, primarily for health. In a Bon Appetit interview, she explained that she found her body didn't process meat well. When she ate vegan, her body was happy and functional, whereas non-vegan foods made her feel sluggish.
For the Vocal Cords
As a renowned singer and Broadway star, vocal health is paramount for Erivo. She specifically avoids dairy, which is a known allergen for her and can affect vocal cords by causing mucus buildup. This decision demonstrates a tailored approach to her diet to support her profession.
A Holistic Lifestyle
Erivo is known for her disciplined fitness routine and her plant-based diet complements this lifestyle perfectly. She often discusses her love for simple, wholesome meals and packs her own food when traveling to ensure she stays on track. Her preferred meals include herb-rubbed tofu, jasmine rice, and various vegan snacks.
Comparing Their Vegan Lifestyles
While both actresses share a commitment to a plant-based diet, their public perception and primary motivations differ slightly.
| Aspect | Ariana Grande | Cynthia Erivo |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Motivation | Primarily ethical (animal welfare) with health benefits | Primarily health-driven, including vocal health |
| Dietary Focus | Whole-food, plant-based, with some macrobiotic influence | Whole-food, health-focused, with specific food avoidance for vocal health |
| Public Expression | Vocal and public, often highlighting animal love; sometimes criticized for non-dietary choices | Generally private, focusing on personal health and fitness benefits |
| On-Set Habits | Reportedly keeps her diet on-set consistent and plant-based | Known to bake vegan treats for cast and crew |
The Significance in the Context of Wicked
The fact that the two stars of Wicked are both vegan is particularly meaningful given the film's plot. The story, adapted from the novel by Gregory Maguire, has strong themes of animal rights, with talking animals and the unjust persecution they face. Elphaba's journey is heavily influenced by her mission to fight for these animals. Having actresses who share these values in their personal lives adds an authentic layer to the film's message. It can also be a powerful tool for raising awareness about animal welfare and veganism among a broad, mainstream audience.
The Stars' Plant-Based Favorites
Ariana Grande's go-to foods:
- Smoothies, often with berries or leafy greens
- Whole foods like nuts and berries
- Japanese cuisine, including daikon, lotus, and adzuki beans
- Plant-based Italian dishes, such as vegan chicken scarpariello
Cynthia Erivo's favorite foods:
- Herb-rubbed tofu and jasmine rice
- Tempura mushrooms and vegan ramen
- Nutrient-dense snacks like fruit, nuts, and seaweed chips
- Baked goods like cakes and cookies made with vegan ingredients
Conclusion
Ultimately, the answer to "Are Cynthia and Ariana vegan?" is a resounding yes. Both Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande have been committed to plant-based diets since 2013, driven by a mix of health and ethical considerations. While their personal reasons and public expressions may differ, their shared lifestyle choice creates a powerful connection to the animal-centric themes of Wicked. As public figures, their veganism helps to raise visibility for plant-based living, influencing fans and adding a meaningful dimension to their professional work. The fact that two major stars have embraced this diet is a testament to its growing mainstream acceptance and accessibility.
For more celebrity vegan news, you can visit a publication like VegNews.
