Ariana Grande Gifts ‘Wicked’ Care Package to Young Cancer Patient: ‘Hope It Makes You Smile’

Pop sensation Ariana Grande brightened nine-year-old Brie’s day by sending her a thoughtfully curated care package brimming with Wicked memorabilia and R.E.M. Beauty treasures.
Courageously battling stage-four neuroblastoma, Brie revealed the contents in a heartfelt Instagram Reel on August 6. She opened with, “Today’s package is the best one yet—it’s from my favorite person in the whole wide world, Ariana Grande.” View the Reel.
In the video, Brie showcases the plush Squishmallows, fragrance, and makeup the singer-actress handpicked. “Thank you so much, Ariana,” she beams. “I adore everything, especially the Squishmallows!”
At the end of Brie’s unboxing, a personalized clip from Ariana plays: “Hi, Brie—it’s Ariana. A little birdie (your mom) told me you love Wicked and Glinda, so I put together this care package just for you. My personal favorite are the Squishmallows.”
“I hope it brings you joy,” the Grammy winner continues. “I’ve seen your videos, and you are the most inspiring little light in the universe. Thank you for being you. Sending you so much love and many virtual hugs.”
With her mother Kendra’s support, Brie has shared her journey on social media, earning a devoted following. Days before the unboxing, she posted another Instagram video celebrating her admiration for the musical’s leading lady. In that clip, Kendra explained that Ariana’s mother, Joan Grande, had called to say Ariana was moved by Brie’s story and wanted to send her a gift. See that post.
Kendra praised Ariana’s kindness: “She has such a beautiful heart. Brielle was overjoyed. Ariana, you’re so talented and thoughtful—thank you for making her day.”
This touching exchange comes ahead of the much-anticipated premiere of Wicked: For Good, arriving in theaters this November—nearly one year after the original film debuted. The first installment earned two Academy Awards, reached No. 2 on the Billboard 200 soundtrack chart, and grossed over $755 million worldwide, the highest ever for a Broadway adaptation.
Meanwhile, Grande recently released Eternal Sunshine Deluxe: Brighter Days Ahead, the expanded edition of her 2024 chart-topping album. All five bonus tracks debuted on the Billboard Hot 100.
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