Wicked star Ariana Grande will receive the Rising Star Award at the Palm Springs International Film Festival, it was announced on Wednesday.
The film awards will take place on Jan. 3, with the festival running from Jan. 2 to Jan. 13.
“In Wicked, Ariana Grande’s portrayal of Glinda elevates her to new heights with a powerful acting performance that beautifully combines her outstanding musical talent, brilliant characterization and impeccable comedic timing,” says Festival Chairman Nachhattar Singh Chandi. “Ariana is an iconic global performer, who has seamlessly transitioned to film in her first major starring role, proving herself to be a multifaceted and undeniable talent. This role is certain to be the beginning of the many accolades she will garner throughout her acting career. It is our great honor to recognize Ariana Grande with the Rising Star Award.”
Past recipients of the award include Gal Gadot (Wonder Woman), Terrence Howard (Hustle & Flow), Anna Kendrick (Up in the Air), Scarlett Johansson (Lost in Translation), Jennifer Lawrence (Winter’s Bone) and Alicia Vikander (The Danish Girl and Ex Machina). Howard, Lawrence and Kendrick went on to receive Academy Award nominations, and Vikander won the Oscar for best supporting actress.
Grande joins previously announced honorees Adrien Brody (Desert Palm Achievement Award, Actor), Timothée Chalamet (Chairman’s Award); Conclave (Ensemble Performance Award), Kieran Culkin (Breakthrough Performance Award, Actor), Colman Domingo (Spotlight Award, Actor), Angelina Jolie (Desert Palm Achievement Award, Actress), Nicole Kidman (International Star Award), Mikey Madison (Breakthrough Performance Award, Actress), and Emilia Pérez (Vanguard Award).
Wicked, directed by Jon M. Chu, also stars Cynthia Erivo, Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh and Jeff Goldblum. It has grossed over $365 million worldwide since its debut on Nov. 22.
In 2021, Grande starred in Don’t Look Up. Aside from her acting career, Grande is an international pop star who began her career as a child actress by appearing in the Broadway musical 13. She then starred in the Nickelodeon series Victorious (2010-2013) and its spinoff series Sam & Cat (2013-2014). She has released seven studio albums and has sold over 90 million records worldwide.
