Though Sam and Cat seemed to get along onscreen despite their differences, rumors circulated that in real life Grande and McCurdy didn't have such a great relationship. When McCurdy didn't attend the Kid's Choice Awards in 2014, some thought it was due to rumors that Grande was getting paid more for her work on Sam & Cat — which Grande vehemently denied in a TwitLonger. McCurdy kept her reasoning vague, saying she was "put in an uncomfortable, compromising, unfair situation" by Nickelodeon (via Teen) — leading to more speculation about pay disputes. Then, in June 2014 McCurdy published a TwitLonger about letting go of a toxic friendship. Interesting timing, considering it was posted around the time Sam & Cat was canceled. To make matters worse, when Grande posted a farewell letter to the fans, cast, and crew of Sam & Cat, there was no mention of McCurdy to be seen.
Rumors flew again at the end of 2014 when McCurdy's next project, a web series entitled What's Next for Sarah? featured a character who seemed a little too similar to Grande. Featuring a high ponytail, the character named Gloriana rambled on about her music career and her successful life. Fans took that as a direct dig at Grande, as it definitely was not a flattering portrayal.
