The Internet practically went into a bicep spasm of “holding space” for a viral moment born of an interview between journalist Tracy E. Gilchrist and “Wicked” stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo.
Taken more than two weeks ago on one of several press trips for the record-breaking musical, the interview produced what many saw as a confusing statement from Gilchrist about the film’s theme song, “Defying Gravity.”
“This week, people are taking the lyrics to ‘Defying Gravity’ and really holding space for them,” the EqualPride journalist said.
“I didn’t know this was happening,” Erivo replied, instantly overcome with emotion.
“I’ve seen it in a few posts, and I don’t know how widespread it is. But I work in queer media,” Gilchrist added.
Immediately, X and TikTok users went wild with the footage, though Gilchrist said it didn’t start until last week. Some of it poked fun at the profound honesty of the exchange, which contained little information but somehow resonated widely with the stars. Grande, supporting her assistant, reached for Ervio’s hand but ended up grabbing her massive nail instead, a moment that went viral on its own.
So, what takes up space? Why did you capture this moment? How do you get official merchandise? diverse I reached out to Gilchrist to discuss everything:
Tell me about your day on the trip. Did you have any idea what this day would become?
I just did what I do, walked in and did an interview. I tend to be that person who jumps in and asks the question that is socially relevant, or perhaps more serious than (most unsolicited questions). Please note that this interview took place a day and a half after the elections. I’ve interviewed Cynthia before, so I shared very sincerely, and I’m happy that people find joy and laughter in it, and that it’s so widespread.
Indeed it is. Have you seen how far this has traveled?
Apparently, I was on “The View” today, but I haven’t watched the clip yet. The Gay Men’s Choir created a full (vocal) warm-up and lyrics with those words I said. It’s so overwhelming. In fact, the virus did not spread until last Friday. I was in meetings and my phone started going off. Later, I was having lunch with a friend, and he kept asking me to explain what was happening, like, why is this so funny? I don’t know! It is.
How do you define “holding space”?
I’m inspired by Toni Morrison (senior communications director) at GLAAD. He posted the lyrics to “Defying Gravity” before I did my interview. It was a great explanation. “Holding space” is being physically, emotionally, and mentally present with someone or something. For me, this means being in the present moment, not being distracted and feeling something on a cellular level. I think you can hold space with the lyrics of a song — a song you’ve heard hundreds of times — and it can suddenly take on a new meaning when you’re a gay person. The Trump administration is targeting LGBTQ+ people through Project 2025. When Cynthia sings “You’ve crossed the line,” there’s power in that. She’s playing another character. Which reaches its full power when it is banished by an imposter, by a cruel leader. There’s a lot of resonance out there now for anyone who’s marginalized. For me, making space means hearing those words again and finding solace or inspiration.
How did you handle the response?
It was really wild. Of course, there are cynics and haters but I really try not to pay too much attention to that. This was for us, for queer people who understand what I mean by making space — or really, for anyone who feels marginalized and can relate. So this is for us. It’s not them. They can hate all they want.
Do you remember any of the posts that inspired your question for Cynthia and Ariana?
Most of it actually came from a conversation with a friend. I was using that to ask the question, and Cynthia’s answer surprised me a little bit because it was so honest and real. I was a little confused. I could have said, “I have all these friends, and this is our conversation.” But instead I said, “I work in queer media.”
A defining moment for queer media.
It’s a catchphrase now.
I was trying to remember the last thing that went viral that stayed in the mix this long, and I thought it was “too sober.” Very thoughtful.” In this context, will you be offering merchandise or starting a docu-series called “Masaha Holding”?
I Much slower than the Internet. My friends were asking me to start and run a merch store. I already see t-shirts and hats. A friend of mine was at a gay bar in Minneapolis this weekend, and he said someone was wearing a t-shirt with my face on it. I hadn’t thought about the full scope of what this could be. I did a podcast with The Advocate several years ago, so who knows? Maybe a little podcast. I’m open.
Have you been recognized on the street?
Saturday night I went to the Cyndi Lauper show in Los Angeles and there were two guys next to me staring and doing double takes. I’m not sure! I joked that I wanted to pull a Sally Field on “Soapdish” and go down to West Hollywood.
To sign autographs and kiss babies?
definitely.
Where will you spend your time next?
She’s in the movie “Queer,” so that’s coming soon, and also in the movie “No Good Deed” on Netflix.
We will definitely make room for those.