Ariana Grande is getting a lot of love for her amazing performance as Glinda in Wicked, and she totally deserves it. While fans know her for her incredible singing, she also showed she can act really well in the musical movie.
This year, she was even nominated for a Golden Globe in 2025! Now, many fans want the Positions singer to star as Meg in the upcoming Hercules musical. Although Ariana feels “honored” by the idea, she thinks someone else would be an even better choice—and honestly, her pick is pretty awesome too!
In a recent chat on Variety’s Awards Circuit podcast, Ariana talked about her exciting year, which included Wicked and the release of her new album, Eternal Sunshine. During the interview, the host mentioned how people have linked her name to Disney’s live-action Hercules, especially after her fun Actors on Actors segment with Paul Mescal. When asked if she’d want to play Meg, the bold and witty heroine, Ariana suggested one of her friends and former co-stars as a perfect fit for the role.
Advertisement It’s funny because when I was younger, I used to sing the Muses’ parts all the time! [laughs] I’ve seen people talking about me playing Megara, but it’s never been something I’ve actually discussed with anyone. While I do enjoy getting into character for a role—and I think playing a darker, sassier character like Meg would be so much fun—I have to say this: I think Elizabeth Gillies would be perfect as Megara. Do you know Liz Gillies? She’s amazing. Honestly, she’d crush it in that role!
Elizabeth Gillies is another popular choice for Megara, and it’s easy to see why. She has the perfect look and attitude to bring Meg’s bold and sassy personality to life. Plus, her acting and singing skills are top-notch. Most people know Gillies as Jade West from Victorious. She and Ariana Grande became friends while working together on Broadway’s 13 and have stayed close ever since. Later, Gillies starred in Dynasty on The CW, where she often showed off her incredible singing talent.
Disney is turning Hercules into its next live-action remake, joining classics like The Lion King, The Little Mermaid, and Lilo & Stitch. Disney seems to love bringing these animated favorites to life and doesn’t plan to stop anytime soon. They first announced the Hercules remake in 2022, but for a while, there weren’t any updates about it.
In 2024, The Russo Brothers, who are producing Hercules through their company AGBO, confirmed that the movie is still happening. While most details are under wraps, they shared that the remake will have a fresh and creative approach.
It’s a bit more experimental in tone and style,
they explained
Joe Russo told Variety that they’re thinking about how to turn it into a musical for today’s audience.
People now are used to TikTok, right? So, we’re exploring what they expect from a musical and how it should look and feel. It’s an exciting way to try something new and push the limits of what a modern musical can be.
While waiting for the movie, you can check out the stage version of Disney’s Hercules coming to London’s West End this year or watch the animated classic on Disney+.