At the 2025 Palm Springs International Film Festival, Ariana Grande demonstrated her signature blend of humor and sincerity as she accepted the Rising Star award for her performance as Glinda in the highly anticipated movie adaptation of Wicked.
Grande, known for her incredible vocal talent and engaging stage presence, took to the podium with a radiant smile. Addressing the audience, she began her speech with heartfelt gratitude. “You don’t know how much it means to me,” Grande said, before seamlessly blending sincerity with humor.
“I’ve been performing since I was a child, so I never thought at the age of 31 I would be hearing the words ‘rising star’ again, so I wanted to start by thanking my two friends: Botox and Juvederm,” she added, referencing her cosmetic enhancements with a playful nod.
Her witty remark sparked laughter and applause from the audience, showcasing her ability to connect with them through humor. Grande’s acknowledgment of her cosmetic work was refreshingly candid, adding a relatable and down-to-earth touch to her glamorous persona.
Being Honest About Herself
Ariana Grande shared that she had stopped using Botox regularly but still appreciated it. “I thought I’d be hearing ‘slightly withering star’ or ‘drooping star’ by now, so thank you,” she joked.
She went on to confirm that she had frequently used Botox and lip fillers when she was younger, but chose to stop in 2018. “(It was) too much. I just felt like hiding,” she explained, reflecting on her personal growth and decision to embrace a more natural look.
As Ariana Grande left the stage to thunderous applause, it was clear that her charm, humor, and authenticity had made the moment unforgettable. Her acceptance speech not only celebrated her accomplishments but also highlighted her genuine personality, endearing her even more to fans and peers alike.