Ariana Grande reacts to Elizabeth Gillies' shocking move

Ariana Grande proudly supported and cheered on Elizabeth Gillies ahead of her big stage moment in New York City.

Just after the off-Broadway production of Little Shop of Horrors revealed the 31-year-old actress would be playing Audrey alongside Milo Manheim’s Seymour, her close friend couldn’t hold back her excitement. 

On January 28, the 31-year-old pop-star took to her Instagram stories to express how "unbelievably proud" she is, sharing the casting news and writing, "Excited for my brilliant friend."

Elizabeth’s return to the NYC stage in the Alan Menken musical marks her first since the duo starred together in 13: The Musical on Broadway in 2008. 

Their bond strengthened during their time on the popular Nickelodeon show Victorious, which they shared with Victoria Justice, Avan Jogia, and others, and has remained strong even after the show ended back in 2013.

In conversation with People in November 2024, the Dynasty star revealed that they often go out of their way to stay in contact.

"We make a real effort to see each other," she said.

"We laugh, we reminisce and we make new memories," the actress added. 

She explained that when you have childhood friends, it’s important to create new memories together in order to keep the friendship alive. Otherwise, the relationship can fall into the habit of only reminiscing about the past and meeting up occasionally.