Ariana Grande is no stranger to showing her admiration for iconic figures in pop culture, and one such figure she has openly respected is Elvira, the Mistress of the Dark. Known for her spooky persona, glamorous goth style, and witty humor, Elvira (played by Cassandra Peterson) has long been a staple in the world of horror and campy entertainment. Ariana Grande’s public acknowledgment and respect for Elvira demonstrate her deep appreciation for classic pop culture icons who paved the way for future generations of entertainers.
Elvira represents a unique niche in the entertainment world. Since her debut in the 1980s, she has embodied a character that blends horror with humor, sexuality with satire, and camp with charisma. Elvira’s influence stretches beyond horror enthusiasts; her character has become a cultural symbol of female empowerment, owning her sexuality while subverting stereotypes.
Ariana Grande, a pop star known for her vocal prowess and style, has often expressed admiration for strong, confident women who challenge norms, and Elvira is no exception. Elvira’s ability to balance beauty, wit, and empowerment likely resonates with Grande, who similarly uses her platform to uplift herself and others through messages of confidence and empowerment.
Grande has shown her love for Elvira in various ways, from Halloween costumes to social media shout-outs. In 2021, Ariana Grande dressed as Elvira for Halloween, a clear sign of her respect for the iconic character. This costume wasn’t just a fun homage; it reflected her deep understanding of and connection to Elvira’s persona. The attention to detail in Grande's Elvira costume, from the iconic black dress to the vampy makeup, showcased not only her dedication to the look but also her awareness of what the character represents.
Elvira herself has reciprocated the love, praising Grande for her tribute and even collaborating with her in some fun social media exchanges. These interactions highlight the mutual respect between two women who’ve made their mark in different entertainment arenas.
Elvira’s influence on pop culture has been far-reaching, and Ariana Grande’s nod to the character shows that even decades after Elvira’s rise to fame, she remains relevant. Elvira’s image has become iconic because it speaks to a larger movement of embracing one’s identity, regardless of societal expectations. In a similar way, Grande has made a name for herself not only with her music but also with her empowerment of others, particularly young women, to be unapologetically themselves.
This respect for Elvira isn’t unique in Ariana Grande’s world. Over the years, Grande has paid homage to several powerful women, including Madonna, Mariah Carey, and even movie characters like Regina George from Mean Girls. Grande’s fascination with these personalities shows a clear pattern: she gravitates toward figures who push boundaries, challenge societal norms, and embrace their full power and influence.
Ariana Grande’s respect for Elvira is more than just a fan tribute. It’s a recognition of Elvira’s legacy as a trailblazer in entertainment. For Grande, paying homage to Elvira is also a way of aligning herself with the same energy: owning who you are, being bold, and standing out from the crowd. This relationship between two icons in their own right—one in the realm of horror and one in pop music—speaks to how timeless figures like Elvira can continue to inspire new generations, and how Ariana Grande honors that legacy with both respect and flair.
