Exclusive : Ariana Grande revealed that when her father (Edward Butera) saw Ari using his name in the credits of Wicked, Ari also… see more

In a heartfelt nod to her heritage, pop sensation and actress Ariana Grande has chosen to credit herself as Ariana Grande-Butera in her upcoming role as Glinda in the highly anticipated Wicked film adaptation. The decision is not only a professional one but also deeply personal, honoring her family roots and acknowledging her renewed relationship with her father, Edward Butera.

Grande’s journey with her father has been a complex one, as the pair experienced a period of estrangement in her early adult years. However, in recent years, the two have reconnected, finding ways to bridge the gap that had once grown between them. In 2019, Grande publicly shared that she had reestablished her relationship with her father, a pivotal moment that, she revealed, came after much self-reflection and maturity.

For Grande, family has always been an essential part of her identity. Born Ariana Grande-Butera, she grew up in Boca Raton, Florida, as the daughter of Edward Butera and Joan Grande. Despite her global fame, Grande has consistently stayed connected to her Italian-American roots, often sharing her pride in her heritage with fans. This connection was evident in her choice to retain her full name in the Wicked credits, marking a personal triumph and reconciliation with her family

The decision to go by Grande-Butera in the credits for Wicked is significant, particularly in Hollywood, where many artists streamline their names to fit the spotlight. However, for Grande, this moment serves as more than a credit—it is a tribute to her roots, to her parents, and to the journey of finding balance between her personal and professional life.

According to sources close to the star, using her father’s name in the credits was a heartfelt choice, representing a public acknowledgment of her relationship with both parents. Although Grande’s mother, Joan, has often been in the public eye as her manager and confidante, her father has largely remained out of the spotlight. By adding “Butera” to her credit in Wicked, Grande symbolically embraces both sides of her family.