SINGAPORE — A Disruptive Premiere Gone Wrong
At the glittering world premiere of Wicked: For Good in Singapore on November 13, what was meant to be a star-studded, yellow-carpet moment turned into a startling scene: an Australian man leapt a barricade and grabbed Ariana Grande as she walked into the event.
The man, later identified as 26-year-old Johnson Wen, wasted no time making headlines. Video footage shows him wrapping his arm around a visibly shocked Grande, who tried to pull away. The moment escalated quickly — Wicked co-star Cynthia Erivo, known for her role as Elphaba, jumped in to physically shield Grande, while security swiftly intervened and escorted Wen off the carpet.
Pattern of Intrusion: Not His First Rodeo
This wasn’t Wen’s first high-profile breach. Known online as “Pyjama Man,” he has a history of crashing events — from The Weeknd and The Chainsmokers concerts to a Katy Perry show, and even major sporting occasions like the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Court records reflect that his conduct is not random but part of a pattern: he previously admitted to seeking attention and acknowledged the legal consequences of his behavior.
Legal Fallout: Guilty Plea and Jail Time
Because of the Singapore incident, Wen was charged with public nuisance, a crime that can carry a fine, jail time, or both. In court, he pleaded guilty.
On November 17, a Singapore judge handed him a nine-day jail sentence, noting that his actions were “attention-seeking” and had been “premeditated.” The court also expressed concern that Wen’s pattern of behavior showed he could repeat such stunts in the future.
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On the Carpet: Shock, Support, and Aftermath
The incident understandably shook Grande. Witnesses say she seemed stunned and later appeared visibly distressed. After Wen was removed, the cast regrouped. Erivo was quick to defend her co-star, and actors Michelle Yeoh and Jeff Goldblum stayed close by, helping steady the situation.
Despite the disruption, the premiere continued, with cast members later gathering to console Grande.
Wen did not deny the stunt — he posted a video on Instagram afterward, writing:
“Dear Ariana Grande … Thank you for letting me Jump on the Yellow Carpet with You.”
Reactions: Cast, Fans, and the Bigger Picture
The backlash was immediate. Many criticized Wen’s actions as disrespectful — especially given Grande’s past trauma, including her openness about PTSD after the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing.
Wen’s behavior prompted broader conversation about boundaries, mental health, and the responsibility of fans. Some supporters of Grande praised Erivo for her quick reaction, calling her intervention courageous. And on the legal front, the judge underscored that his sentence was not just about punishment, but sending a message: such behavior will not be tolerated.
Also read: Bo Bragason Steals the Spotlight in First Look at The Legend of Zelda Movie — What Fans Are Saying
Why This Matters Beyond the Buzz
- The incident spotlights the security risks at high-profile entertainment events — even in well-controlled environments.
- It raises questions around fan entitlement, especially when social media fame and “prankster culture” motivate dangerous stunts.
- For Wicked: For Good, it’s a jarring reminder that the red-carpet glamor of movie premieres can shatter in an instant.
As the Wicked franchise continues to make headlines — both for its story and its stars — this event will likely remain a cautionary tale about boundaries, celebrity, and performance in the digital age.
FAQ
What exactly happened at the “Wicked: For Good” premiere?
A man named Johnson Wen jumped over a barricade on the yellow carpet and wrapped his arm around Ariana Grande. Cynthia Erivo rushed in to protect her, and security removed him.
Who is Johnson Wen?
Wen is a 26-year-old Australian social media personality known as “Pyjama Man.” He has a history of disrupting events, including concerts and sports matches.
What charges did he face?
He was charged with public nuisance under Singapore law, which can carry up to three months in jail or a fine of S$2,000 (or both).
What was his sentence?
He pleaded guilty and was sentenced on November 17 to nine days in jail.
Did Ariana Grande comment on the incident?
She did not publicly address the incident directly but shared later on Instagram a message of gratitude with photos from Singapore, thanking her fans.
How did Wicked: For Good continue after the disruption?
Despite the scare, the premiere continued, and the cast came together to support Grande after the incident.
Source:
- https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Culture/ariana-grande-accosted-attendee-premiere-wicked-good/story?id=127491113
- https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c2dr6y0w3rjo
- https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/movies/story/2025-11-17/ariana-grande-man-jailed-singapore-wicked-good