Understanding the Trend: Why People are “Holding Space” for Defying Gravity in Wicked Memes

What lies behind the virality of this meme? Let’s delve into the details.

Overview of Wicked Part 1

The long-awaited film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical Wicked Part 1 has finally hit theaters, delighting both fans and critics alike during its initial weeks at the box office. While the cinematic experience is noteworthy, the associated press tour has stirred up its share of excitement—although perhaps not in the manner anticipated by the film’s promotion team.

Memorable Moments from the Press Tour

The press events surrounding Wicked have been particularly memorable, featuring highlights such as stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande becoming emotional during interviews, and the ever-charismatic Jeff Goldblum entertaining everyone with his wit. These genuine reactions have contributed to the overall buzz, creating a particular moment that has resonated with audiences online.

The Birth of a Viral Meme

A pivotal moment came during an interview conducted for the Wicked promotion. In this interaction, Erivo shared her surprise upon learning about a specific online sentiment regarding the term “holding space” for a song. Initially unaware, she was touched when a journalist highlighted its presence in queer media. Erivo responded with genuine emotion, emphasizing the importance of what was being discussed:

“That’s really powerful, that’s what I wanted,” expressed Erivo, visibly moved. Grande offered her support, leading to a tender exchange between the two stars.

Internet Reaction and Meme Culture

The reaction online has been overwhelming, with many users expressing confusion about what “holding space” truly means. Social media, particularly TikTok and X (formerly Twitter), has been flooded with memes and commentary, such as:

I don’t understand what holding space means, or why it’s so powerful, but I’m holding space for the potential to understand the space I’m holding.
— @clotpolechrlie

Working its way into daily conversation, fans humorously employ the term as a justification for their personal lives, illustrating a unique phenomenon among Wicked enthusiasts.

Insights from the Journalist

Recently, *Variety* interviewed journalist Gilchrist regarding the viral response to her engaging dialogue with Erivo and Grande. She remarked:

“I’m glad people are finding joy in it and laughing…This was for us, for queer people who understand what I meant by holding space, or really, for anybody who feels marginalized.”She elaborated, “For me, it means being in the moment, not being distracted, and feeling something on a cellular level.”

Conclusion and Future Developments

The buzz around Wicked Part 1 is amplified by its emotional depth and genuine interactions among its stars. As the film continues to gain traction, fans eagerly anticipate Wicked Part 2, set to premiere on November 21, 2024.

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