The pop star expresses remorse over alleged disrespect towards the 80s horror icon during a backstage encounter years ago.

Ariana Grande has taken to social media to apologise to horror legend Elvira, after the actress, whose real name is Cassandra Peterson, publicly claimed that Grande snubbed her during a backstage meeting several years ago. The incident occurred at a question-and-answer panel in California, where Peterson shared her disappointment at being disregarded by the star of Wicked.

Peterson, 73, known for her role as the Mistress of the Dark, recounted the event during a panel discussion, revealing that she had gifted Grande around 20 tickets to one of her shows. During the backstage interactions, Peterson expressed her generosity, stating, “I take a picture with every single one of them. I sign autographs for every single one of them.” However, when it came time for a photo with Grande, Peterson claimed the pop star refused, saying, “No, I’d rather not.” To add to her disappointment, Grande left the venue before Peterson’s show commenced, while her family members remained behind.

The story took on a humorous note when someone on stage joked that Grande was “playing the wrong witch,” referring to her portrayal of Glinda in the upcoming film adaptation of Wicked. Peterson, in good spirits, laughed along with the audience, but her comments left Grande feeling “disheartened.”

In response to the backlash, Grande, 31, addressed Peterson’s claims in an Instagram comment, explaining that she did not recall their encounter clearly. “I actually don’t even remember getting the chance to meet you because I had an anxiety attack and, to my memory, left before the rest of my family,” she wrote. Grande explained that the incident occurred about seven years ago, a time when she struggled with anxiety in public settings.

Her heartfelt apology continued, “But if I’m misremembering this moment, I sincerely apologise for offending you.” Grande also expressed gratitude to Peterson for being kind to her mother, adding a touch of humour by saying, “she might have different feelings about that now but I’ll talk to her… clearly, we all have our days!”

Grande concluded her message with affection, stating, “sending love always,” and reaffirming Peterson’s status as “our queen of Halloween.”

The incident comes at a time when excitement builds for Wicked, which is set for release on November 22. Grande recently engaged in discussions surrounding a promotional poster for the film, featuring herself alongside Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba.

Fans have shown mixed reactions to the new poster, which offers a contemporary take on the original artwork from the 2003 Broadway production. Erivo voiced her concerns, stating that the new design detracted from her intention to connect with the audience through eye contact, labelling it as “degrading.”

As the drama unfolds around both the film and her interactions with Peterson, Grande’s apology reflects her sensitivity to the pressures of fame and the complexities of public encounters. Her acknowledgement of her struggles with anxiety further highlights the realities faced by many performers in the spotlight.

While the incident has drawn attention, it remains to be seen how it will affect the forthcoming film’s release and Grande’s relationship with her fans and fellow artists.