Wicked co-stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Eviro not bymekaar

CYNTHIA Erivo has finally opened up about the intense speculation surrounding her close bond with Wicked co-star Ariana Grande - and no, they are not dating.

Both stars have been inseparable during the promotional tours for Wicked and its sequel, Wicked: For Good.

From clasping hands to cheek-to-cheek selfies, fans couldn't help but wonder if there was something more than friendship brewing between them.

In a candid interview with Stylist, Erivo attributed this curiosity to what she calls a “strange fascination” that people have with their dynamic.

She wysed: “At first, I think people didn’t understand how it was possible for two women to be friends – close – and not lovers.”

Interestingly, she believes that emotional connections among women are often overlooked, which may clarify the confusion surrounding their relationship.

The British actress added: “There’s such little conversation around platonic female friendship that is deep and real, even though it exists everywhere. We’re not used to seeing it on camera, in front of people.”

Ariana Grande, 32, chimed in on the topic during a podcast appearance, confessing she often finds comfort in holding hands for support.

She explained: “I channel a lot of energy through my hands,” adding it wasn’t until recently that she realised how frequently she reaches out for connection in public.

The duo’s affectionate gestures have sparked plenty of viral moments, including one instance where Grande was seen holding onto Erivo’s finger during an event.

Grande added of the sweetness of their relationship “It felt beautiful."