Australian Man Jailed in Singapore for Grabbing Ariana Grande at Movie Premiere

A Singapore court has sentenced 26-year-old Australian Johnson Wen to nine days in prison for grabbing pop star and actress Ariana Grande at the Asia premiere of Wicked: For Good last Thursday. Wen was convicted of causing a public nuisance, after videos circulated showing him jumping barriers, charging at Grande, and grabbing her shoulders while jumping up and down.

The incident sparked widespread outrage in Singapore, with many calling for Wen’s arrest and deportation. Grande, who has previously spoken about experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder following a 2017 suicide bombing at her Manchester concert, was visibly shocked during the intrusion.

The court heard that Wen attempted to breach the premiere’s security twice. After Cynthia Erivo, Grande’s co-star, forcibly removed him the first time, Wen made a second attempt, only to be stopped and pinned down by security. Wen later posted videos online of the incident, thanking Grande and claiming he was “free.”

Prosecutors described Wen as a “serial intruder” who sought social media attention by disrupting concerts and public events, including appearances by Katy Perry and The Weeknd. Reports indicate he has been banned from some Australian stadiums and fined for previous disruptions.

Appearing in court without legal representation, Wen pleaded guilty and promised the judge that he would not repeat his actions. Singapore law allows for up to three months in prison or fines of up to S$2,000 (£1,167; $1,537) for public nuisance offences.

Grande has not publicly commented on the case, continuing to appear at events in Los Angeles. Erivo alluded to the incident during a press appearance, remarking on the challenges they had navigated while filming and referencing “even this last week.”

The case highlights ongoing concerns over celebrity safety and the consequences of viral, attention-seeking behaviour at high-profile events.