For longtime fans of daytime television, the name Scarlett Spears may already bring a smile. The 8-year-old has been captivating audiences since she first appeared on General Hospital at just 4 years old, portraying Donna, the daughter of Sonny Corinthos (Maurice Benard) and Carly Corinthos (Laura Wright). But now, Scarlett is stepping into the spotlight in a way that will delight both soap opera fans and musical theater enthusiasts alike.
This November, audiences nationwide will get a taste of Scarlett’s burgeoning talent as she takes on the role of Young Glinda in the highly anticipated sequel, Wicked: For Good. The film, which hits theaters on November 21st, continues the story of the iconic witches from the beloved Broadway musical, with Scarlett portraying the childhood version of Galinda—better known to audiences as Glinda the Good—whose adult incarnation is played by none other than Oscar-nominated, Grammy-winning superstar Ariana Grande.
The connection between the two is more than just a casting choice; it’s a celebration of storytelling across generations. In the official trailer released this week, fans can see glimpses of Scarlett in her sparkling costume as Young Glinda, delivering the line, “I want to be magical … for real!” with all the enthusiasm, innocence, and charm one would hope for in a young actress stepping into such a beloved role. For older fans, it’s a reminder of how the magic of theater and film can inspire new generations, bridging the gap between childhood dreams and adult achievements.
Ariana Grande herself took a moment to share her admiration for Scarlett, posting a heartfelt tribute on Instagram. In her post, she wrote:
“My tiny girl in the bubble, played by the wonderful and talented Scarlett Spears, thank you for your beautiful work and for allowing the world to understand our Galinda more deeply than ever before. I adore you so.”
The praise from one of music and entertainment’s biggest stars was no small moment. For viewers who grew up with the music and musicals of their own youth, seeing a young talent receive acknowledgment from a contemporary icon like Grande evokes a sense of continuity—a passing of the torch between generations of performers.
Scarlett’s journey from General Hospital to a major motion picture role is an inspiring story for audiences who have watched her grow over the years. Having worked on GH since the tender age of four, she has shared screen time with veteran actors, learning the craft in an environment that values both experience and heart. Her co-stars have celebrated her new role enthusiastically, with Daytime Emmy nominee Jacqueline Grace Lopez posting, “Gaah! Congrats Scarlett!” on social media, while her on-screen brother Rory Gibson (Michael) applauded her achievement with a string of clapping emojis.
For older fans who have followed General Hospital for decades, there’s a deep satisfaction in seeing one of the show’s young stars step into a larger, more universal role. It serves as a reminder of the enduring influence of daytime television and its ability to nurture talent that resonates beyond the soap opera set. Scarlett’s performance as Young Glinda captures not only the whimsy and magic of Wicked, but also the professionalism and dedication that has been evident since her earliest days on GH.
Wicked: For Good promises to deliver all the enchanting spectacle, heartfelt music, and moral lessons that fans have come to love, while Scarlett’s portrayal of the younger Galinda adds an extra layer of charm and emotional resonance. Her performance allows audiences, young and old alike, to reflect on childhood ambition, friendship, and the transformative power of believing in oneself—a theme that resonates universally.
As Scarlett steps onto the big screen, her co-stars, mentors, and fans alike are cheering her on. And with Ariana Grande personally acknowledging her talent, it’s clear that this young actress is poised for a future filled with both magic and promise.
For those who have spent decades watching actors grow up on television, Scarlett Spears’ journey—from soap opera prodigy to a young star in a major musical adaptation—offers a heartwarming reminder that talent, dedication, and a touch of magic can truly light up the screen at any age.
Scarlett Spears as Young Glinda isn’t just a role; it’s a celebration of legacy, inspiration, and the enduring power of storytelling—one that bridges generations of audiences and reminds us all why we fell in love with the magic of movies in the first place.
