Psychologist explains true meaning of 'holding space' after clip of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande goes viral

Internet search engines have been flooded with queries about 'holding space' after Wicked actress Cynthia Erivo was told by a journalist that fans had been doing so during her performance of 'Defying Gravity'.

Now, one psychologist has spilt the beans on what the phrase actually means, after the bizarre interaction was transformed into an online meme.

Let's fill you in on the Wicked press tour chaos...

For the last few weeks, both Elphaba actress Cynthia Erivo and her Glinda co-star Ariana Grande have been travelling the world giving interviews with press in a bid to promote their latest project.

The tour has seen a plethora of bizarre moments hit the headlines - including 'crying-gate', and Cynthia's annoyance over a fan-made poster - but this week, it's a conversation the Wicked pair had with Out reporter Tracy E. Gilchrist that's gone viral.

In a TikTok, which has since racked up millions of views, the reporter can be seen telling 37-year-old Cynthia: "I've seen this week people are taking the lyrics of 'Defying Gravity' and really holding space with that and feeling power in that."

Seemingly shocked by the news Cynthia clutches her invisible pearls and replies: "I didn't know that that was happening.That's really powerful.

"That's what I wanted. I didn't know that was happening."

Her co-star Ariana, 31, then intensifies the weirdness by reaching across and taking hold of Cynthia's fingers.

"I've seen it on a couple of posts - I don't know how widespread," the journalist then clarifies. "But I am in queer media."

"That's really cool," Cynthia continues.

'Holding space' becomes a meme

The nonsensical nature of the interview - combined with the fact it was accompanied by some pretty dramatic music - has seen the interaction transformed into a viral meme, with many wondering what on earth the turn of phrase 'holding space' really means.

These questions intensified when several publications accused the remark of being total gobbledegook, with Forbes saying the reporter was likely 'making reference to Wicked fans feeling inspired and empowered by the song'.

They added, however, that Gilchrist chose to 'articulate it in a way many would describe as 'therapy speak', leaving viewers confused.

Professor of psychology Thelma has since chimed in on the debate, confirming the theory that the term is often used during emotional conversations, but was done so in an unconventional capacity this time around.

So, what does 'holding space' actually mean?

Describing 'holding space' as being 'emotionally and authentically present in an undistracted way', she also told 4 Los Angeles: "Instead of being caught up with the worries of the day or instead of being consumed with the past, you are present in this moment.

"And, in turn, with your emotions and what is happening in the now."

She added: "We can give ourselves permission to slow down and acknowledge what we are actually feeling — if you are upset about something, or grieving something, or if you are appreciative of something."

Gilchrist has since clarified that this is sort of what she meant by asking her question.

She told Variety this week: "'Holding space’ is being physically, emotionally and mentally present with someone or something.

"For me, it means being in the moment, not being distracted and feeling something on a cellular level. I think you can hold space with lyrics of a song – one you’ve heard hundreds of times – and it can suddenly take on new meaning when you’re a queer person."

The reporter also said the recent re-election of Donald Trump played a part in her line of questioning.

"The Trump administration is targeting LGBTQ+ people via Project 2025. When Cynthia sings ‘I’m through accepting limits,’ there’s power in that."

Gilchirst continued: "She plays a character who is othered. One who comes to her full power when she is exiled by a charlatan, by a cruel leader. There’s a lot of resonance there right now for anyone who is marginalised.

"For me, holding space is listening to those lyrics anew and finding solace or inspiration."