Cynthia Erivo Says ‘I Don’t Know’ How ‘Wicked’ Earns 10 Oscar Noms but Jon M. Chu Gets Snubbed for Best Director: ‘We Have Another Film Coming’

As a devoted cinephile, I was thrilled to attend the EbMaster Studio event hosted by Audible at Sundance before the Visionary Award ceremony at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival gala fundraiser. During the event, the incredible Cynthia Erivo expressed her bewilderment about how “Wicked” managed to secure an impressive ten Oscar nominations, yet failed to recognize director Jon M. Chu in the Best Director category. Remarkably, Erivo herself is nominated for Best Actress, while co-star Ariana Grande is up for Best Supporting Actress.

I’m not sure, but let me make this clear – ‘Wicked’ is no small feat. If only everyone could grasp the immense effort required to bring such a grand production to life,” Erivo explained to Angelique Jackson of EbMaster’s. “Every detail, from casting to set design, depends on his vision. Without him, it simply couldn’t happen. He’s the one who selected us for our roles, demanded nine million tulips, and insisted on building a realistic set. He wants the camera close-up when Glinda walks down the steps in the Ozdust Ballroom. It takes a unique vision to manage something as complex as this, or else it might easily spin out of control.

As a movie connoisseur, I’d like to reassure fellow enthusiasts disheartened by Chu’s absence from “Wicked,” understanding their anticipation for his work. However, it’s crucial to remember we have another film on the horizon, namely “Wicked: For Good.” In light of this, let me emphasize that Chu is an exceptional director, a fact evident in his ability to manage two films simultaneously. The talented individuals he entrusted with each department are testament to his skill as well.

Chu was the one who initially contacted Erivo after her best actress nomination was made public, as stated. Erivo referred to her director as both the “big brother” and the “father” of the “Wicked” cast. He sent a message to the group saying, “We did it!” and has consistently celebrated this achievement from the start. I am incredibly thankful for him because he had faith in us and allowed us the freedom to perform. He is an amazing beacon of guidance.

Erivo expressed that although Chu didn’t receive a nomination for Best Director, he is incredibly thankful for every nomination he has, especially for Best Picture. This brings joy to him, and as long as he’s happy, so am I. It’s all about the grand scheme – if he succeeds, I do too. My wish is for his continued success.

After the Oscar nominations were revealed, Grande conversed with EbMaster and expressed her thoughts on Chu’s omission. She stated: “He is exceptionally talented, and all the other nominations are due to Jon. I know he feels that the recognition of ‘Wicked’ is also a tribute to him. We recently spoke over Facetime, and I told him how much I admire him, and the fact, which is that none of this would have transpired without his guidance, genius, compassion, and sensitivity.

The Oscars air Sunday, March 2.

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2025-01-25 01:46