If you were a fan of the hit Nickelodeon show Victorious, you probably remember the on-screen chemistry between Cat Valentine and Jade West, played by the talented duo Ariana Grande and Elizabeth Gillies. Their friendship on the show felt so genuine that it’s hard to believe they weren’t friends long before landing their iconic roles. But as surprising as it may sound, their bond began years before they graced our TV screens.
The year was 2008 when Ariana Grande and Elizabeth Gillies first crossed paths, not on a TV set, but on the grand stage of Broadway. The musical that brought them together was none other than “13: The Musical.” Little did they know that this fateful encounter would lay the foundation for a friendship that would withstand the test of time.
Fast forward to 2010, when Nickelodeon introduced us to the vibrant world of Victorious. Ariana and Elizabeth found themselves reunited, this time as Cat Valentine and Jade West, two characters with distinct personalities that complemented each other perfectly. Behind the scenes, their friendship from their Broadway days continued to blossom.
In an interview with Teen Vogue in May 2012, Ariana Grande couldn’t help but gush about her deep connection with Elizabeth Gillies. She revealed, “I lived with Liz for a while. She lived in my mom’s house with me. It was so much fun!” This candid confession showcased the level of closeness they had achieved, transcending the boundaries of mere co-stars.
As Victorious gained popularity and both young actresses soared to new heights in their careers, their friendship remained steadfast. Ariana and Elizabeth’s bond wasn’t just for show; it was authentic and heartfelt. Even as their individual careers branched out in different directions, they always found a way to support and uplift each other.
A testament to their enduring camaraderie came in the form of Ariana Grande’s music videos. When Ariana skyrocketed to international fame with her music career, she made sure to include her dear friend in some of her most iconic visuals. Elizabeth Gillies made appearances in hit music videos like “Thank U, Next” and “Stuck With U,” showing the world that their connection wasn’t limited to the confines of a TV set.
In 2019, Elizabeth gave us a glimpse into their friendship dynamic by sharing a heartwarming post on Instagram. Alongside a picture of the two of them, she wrote, “Can’t wait to be 75 years old & sharing a dressing room on Broadway again.” This sweet sentiment encapsulated the timeless quality of their friendship, hinting at a bond that would withstand the passage of time.
Ariana Grande and Elizabeth Gillies’ friendship is a beautiful reminder that genuine connections can emerge from unexpected places. Their journey from co-stars on Broadway to inseparable friends on Victorious and beyond serves as an inspiration to fans and aspiring performers alike. In an industry often marked by competition and rivalry, these two talented women have shown us the power of supporting and cherishing each other’s successes.
As fans, we can only hope that the dynamic duo will have more opportunities to collaborate and grace our screens with their extraordinary talents. Whether it’s through music, acting, or any other creative endeavor, there’s no doubt that Ariana Grande and Elizabeth Gillies will continue to shine both as individuals and as friends, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment world. And who knows? Perhaps we’ll witness their reunion on Broadway someday, just as Elizabeth envisioned, and celebrate the enduring power of their friendship once more.