Lorna Luft, the daughter of the legendary Judy Garland, was overcome with emotion during the 2025 Academy Awards’ heartfelt homage to The Wizard of Oz.
The tribute, which featured a medley from the highly anticipated Wicked adaptation, included a poignant performance by Ariana Grande, who sang the timeless classic “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”
The song, originally performed by Garland in her iconic role as Dorothy in the 1939 cinematic masterpiece, holds a special place in the hearts of fans and the Garland family alike.
Taking to her Instagram Stories on Monday, March 3, the 72-year-old Luft expressed her gratitude for the touching tribute. “Thank you to @arianagrande, @cynthiaerivo, & @theacademy for honoring my mother’s memory so beautifully,” she wrote. “Myself and my family are very grateful.”
She concluded her message with a heartfelt sign-off, “All Love, Lorna,” accompanied by a heart emoji, encapsulating the depth of her appreciation.
The Wicked medley, which opened the 2025 Oscars ceremony, showcased Grande in her role as Glinda, the Good Witch, from the 2024 musical adaptation. Grande’s rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” was a nostalgic nod to Garland’s unforgettable performance, evoking a sense of reverence for the original film.
Adding to the homage, Grande’s ensemble paid subtle tribute to Dorothy’s iconic ruby slippers. The singer donned a dazzling ruby-red gown, meticulously crafted by designer Daniel Roseberry, featuring 150,000 Siam sequins. The dress, complete with a cascading tulle skirt and matching ruby heels adorned with bows, was a visual masterpiece.
A striking detail on the back of the gown—a tonal 3D trompe l’oeil shoe placed between her shoulder blades—added a whimsical touch, further honoring Garland’s legacy.
Cynthia Erivo, who portrays Elphaba in Wicked, delivered a powerful performance of “Home” from the 1975 Broadway production The Wiz. Erivo’s strapless gown mirrored the one worn by Diana Ross in the 1978 film adaptation of the musical, creating a seamless connection between the past and present.
Following their individual performances, Erivo and Grande joined forces to perform “Defying Gravity,” the show-stopping number that concludes the first act of Wicked. Grande gracefully stepped aside during the final high notes, allowing Erivo to shine in a moment of vocal brilliance.
Both actresses received Academy Award nominations for their roles in Wicked, which garnered a total of 10 nominations, including Best Picture and Best Original Score.
The film secured two Oscars that evening: Best Costume Design for Paul Tazewell and Best Production Design for Lee Sandeles and Nathan Crowley.
Tazewell’s win marked a historic moment, as he became the first Black man to receive an Oscar in the Best Costume Design category.
Wicked is now available for purchase on Prime Video and Apple TV+, with streaming set to begin on Peacock on March 21.
The film’s success and the Academy Awards’ tribute have not only celebrated the enduring legacy of The Wizard of Oz but also highlighted the profound impact of Judy Garland’s contributions to cinema.
