An Australian man who rushed at and grabbed Ariana Grande during the Singapore premiere of “Wicked: For Good” has been deported to Australia and permanently banned from re-entering Singapore. Johnson Wen, 26, was sentenced to nine days in jail earlier for public nuisance related to the incident.
On November 13, 2025, during the Asia-Pacific premiere of “Wicked: For Good” at Universal Studios Singapore, Johnson Wen jumped over a barricade and charged towards Ariana Grande as she walked the yellow carpet. He put his arm around her while jumping up and down, causing a commotion and visibly shocking the actress. Grande’s co-star Cynthia Erivo quickly intervened, forcing herself between them, while security guards apprehended Wen. Despite being removed, he attempted to jump the barricade a second time but was pinned down by security.
Wen was arrested around midnight on November 14 and charged with public nuisance the same day. He pleaded guilty, and during his trial, the court heard that he had a history of disrupting events, including concerts and sporting occasions. Prosecutors described him as a “serial intruder” who publicized his actions online to gain popularity. Videos of the incident were posted on his social media accounts with captions thanking Grande.
On November 17, District Judge Christopher Goh sentenced Wen to nine days in jail, more than the one week requested by prosecutors, noting his prior behavior and lack of consequences. The judge emphasized the need for a deterrent sentence, hoping Wen would end his actions “for good.” Wen, who was not represented by a lawyer, told the court he would not repeat the behavior.
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) confirmed on November 23 that Wen had been deported to Australia and barred from re-entering Singapore. This action follows his jail sentence and aims to prevent future disruptions. Wen had arrived in Singapore on November 11 on a 90-day social visit pass to attend the premiere and for a holiday.
Wen is known for similar intrusions, such as crashing Katy Perry’s Sydney concert in June and invading the pitch at the men’s 100m final at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Australian media reports indicate he is banned from some stadiums and has faced fines. His actions have sparked criticism and calls for stricter security measures at public events.
The incident drew outrage in Singapore, with many expressing concern for Grande’s well-being, especially given her history of post-traumatic stress disorder following the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing. Grande has not publicly commented on the case but appeared at events in Los Angeles shortly after. Erivo alluded to the incident, mentioning challenges they faced during the week.
This case highlights issues of celebrity security and the consequences of disruptive behavior at high-profile events. It may lead to enhanced safety protocols for future premieres and concerts. For Wen, the deportation and ban mark a significant penalty, potentially curbing his pattern of intrusions.
