5 Shocking Reasons Why Ariana Grande Declared Kelly Clarkson The 'Best Singer In The World'

The relationship between pop powerhouses Ariana Grande and Kelly Clarkson goes far deeper than a single season on a reality competition show, evolving into a genuine, mutual admiration society that continues to make headlines even in late 2025. Their dynamic, which began as a friendly rivalry on NBC's *The Voice*, has since blossomed into a professional partnership and a public friendship where both artists consistently crown the other as the greatest vocalist of their generation.

The most recent news keeping their connection current involves the promotional tour for the film *Wicked: For Good*, where Grande, playing Glinda, was forced to cancel a highly anticipated appearance on *The Kelly Clarkson Show* due to a positive COVID-19 diagnosis. This twist of fate prevented a fresh on-screen reunion, but it underscores how closely their professional paths still intersect, years after their joint coaching stint and their beloved Christmas collaboration.

The Iconic Pop Star Biographies: Ariana Grande and Kelly Clarkson

To truly appreciate the magnitude of their friendship and collaboration, one must first understand the individual accomplishments of these two GRAMMY-winning vocalists. Both artists have carved out untouchable legacies in the music and television industries.

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Ariana Grande-Butera (Ariana Grande)

• Born: June 26, 1993, Boca Raton, Florida.
• Career Start: Broadway's *13* (2008); Nickelodeon's *Victorious* (2010).
• Music Debut: *Yours Truly* (2013).
• Signature Vocal Style: Four-octave soprano range, whistle tones.
• Key Albums: *Dangerous Woman*, *Sweetener*, *Thank U, Next*, *Eternal Sunshine*.
• Major Film Role: Glinda in the two-part film adaptation of *Wicked* (2024/2025).
• Television Role: Coach on *The Voice* Season 21.
• Awards: Multiple GRAMMY Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and Guinness World Records.

Kelly Brianne Clarkson (Kelly Clarkson)

• Born: April 24, 1982, Fort Worth, Texas.
• Career Start: Winner of the inaugural season of *American Idol* (2002).
• Music Debut: *Thankful* (2003).
• Signature Vocal Style: Powerful, belt-driven mezzo-soprano, known for emotional delivery.
• Key Albums: *Breakaway*, *My December*, *Stronger*, *Chemistry*.
• Film Role: *From Justin to Kelly* (2003), famously defended as a "classic" by Grande.
• Television Roles: Coach on *The Voice* (Seasons 14-21), host of *The Kelly Clarkson Show*.
• Awards: Multiple GRAMMY Awards, Daytime Emmy Awards, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The Voice, The Duet, and The Mutual Admiration Society

The foundation of their professional relationship was laid during Season 21 of *The Voice* in 2021, where they served as coaches alongside veterans Blake Shelton and John Legend. While the show is structured around a friendly rivalry, the genuine respect between Clarkson and Grande was immediately apparent to viewers and critics alike.

Their chemistry was undeniable, leading to several memorable moments, including a stunning performance of Aretha Franklin's "Respect" with the other coaches. They were often seen praising each other's coaching styles and vocal prowess. Kelly Clarkson, a veteran of the show, expressed her appreciation for Ariana's unique approach to mentoring the contestants.

The on-screen connection quickly translated into a professional collaboration outside of the competition. The duo teamed up for the holiday track "Santa, Can't You Hear Me?" on Kelly Clarkson's 2021 album, *When Christmas Comes Around...* The song was an immediate hit, debuting on the Billboard Streaming Songs chart and cementing their status as a powerhouse duo.

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Ariana Grande’s Bold Declaration: ‘Best Singer in the World’

Perhaps the most viral moment that defines their relationship is Ariana Grande's effusive praise for Clarkson. Grande has repeatedly and unequivocally crowned Kelly Clarkson as the "best singer in the world." This is an incredibly high compliment coming from a fellow GRAMMY-winning vocalist known for her own technical skill and impressive four-octave range.

Grande has described Clarkson as "f*cking incredible" and "unbelievable," often expressing a sense of awe when discussing her former co-coach's vocal talent. This isn't just a casual compliment; it’s a public declaration from one pop titan to another, solidifying their mutual respect. Clarkson, in turn, has expressed how humbled she is by the praise, highlighting the genuine nature of their bond.

The Latest Connection: Wicked and The Canceled Interview (Late 2025)

The most recent chapter in the Grande-Clarkson saga involves the highly anticipated release of the second *Wicked* film, *Wicked: For Good*, where Grande stars as Glinda the Good Witch. The film's press tour in late 2025 included a planned appearance by Grande on *The Kelly Clarkson Show*.

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However, a last-minute positive COVID-19 test forced Ariana Grande to pull out of the taping, preventing a highly anticipated on-screen reunion and interview. This incident, while unfortunate, confirms that the two stars are still actively supporting each other's careers. Kelly Clarkson has been a vocal supporter of Grande’s casting in *Wicked*, even interviewing Kristin Chenoweth, the original Glinda on Broadway, about the advice she gave Grande.

Despite the canceled appearance, the public anticipation for their reunion highlights the enduring interest in their dynamic. Fans consistently hope for a future collaboration, whether on a new song or a television segment, to witness their combined vocal and comedic chemistry once more. The connection between Kelly Clarkson, the original *American Idol* winner, and Ariana Grande, the modern pop phenomenon, remains one of the most heartwarming and powerful friendships in the music industry today. Their story is a testament to genuine admiration transcending competition, proving that two of the world's greatest singers can, in fact, be each other's biggest cheerleaders.