Cynthia Erivo Starts the Journey of Reflecting on Wicked

Two things about Cynthia Erivo are certain: she’s poised for a successful career in both theater and film, and she’ll likely be asked about her role in Wicked throughout it. In a recent Variety cover story, Erivo reflected on filming the popular movies, admitting she hasn’t had much time to fully process the experience. “I haven’t really looked back at it yet,” she explained, “I think you need some distance to truly appreciate something.”

Cynthia Erivo recently discussed an incident that happened during the Wicked: For Good press tour. While in Singapore, a man rushed towards Ariana Grande, and video footage showed Erivo physically intervening to push him away. Following the incident, some online commentators labeled Erivo as Grande’s “bodyguard,” and she shared her thoughts on that label. Erivo explained that the reaction highlights a deeper issue, stating, “I think we haven’t fully acknowledged how we tend to view Black women.” She anticipates some will dismiss her point, but firmly believes it’s relevant.

As a film fan, it really struck me when I heard this actress talk about how her appearance was treated on set. She felt like the way she looked – her body type, being bald, everything – was seen through a racial lens. People seemed to automatically assume things about her character based on her physicality. Apparently, they figured because she was built differently than her co-star, she had to be the dominant or protective one. It’s frustrating, but she pointed out that if the roles were reversed, that assumption likely wouldn’t have happened. It just highlights how easily stereotypes can creep into storytelling.

The upsetting experience of the attack, and the negative online reaction to her defending Ariana Grande, discouraged Cynthia Erivo from actively campaigning for an Oscar. She explained, “I felt my basic human decency was twisted,” and that a natural, instinctive reaction was misrepresented due to biases against women who look like her. She didn’t want to subject herself to that kind of scrutiny and didn’t feel she deserved the negativity. Ultimately, Wicked: For Good didn’t receive any Oscar nominations, but the public’s interest in the situation continues.

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2026-05-28 00:54