Cynthia Erivo is making waves in the entertainment industry with her remarkable talent and captivating performances. The actress and singer recently received an Oscar nomination for her role in the highly anticipated film adaptation of “Wicked.”
Erivo plays Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, opposite Ariana Grande in this prequel to “The Wizard of Oz.” The film has garnered an impressive 10 Oscar nominations, including Best Actress for Erivo. In an interview on the red carpet of the 2025 Critics Choice Awards, Erivo expressed her excitement about the film and its upcoming second part.
She also shared her reaction to her and Grande’s Oscar nominations, stating, “I’m so proud of Ariana. She’s done such an incredible job.”
Erivo’s journey to success has been filled with determination and hard work.
Cynthia’s Oscar nod for Wicked
Before her rise to fame, she could be found working various roles at the Stratford East Theatre in London, not far from where she grew up. Her undeniable talent as a dynamic vocalist and actress has earned her critical acclaim in projects such as “Genius: Aretha” and “The Color Purple.”
Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba in “Wicked” showcases her vulnerability and humanity, as she brings depth to the character’s struggles with being an outcast and discovering her inner strength. The actress performed live on set, singing while flying in a harness, adding an authentic quality to her performance.
Fashion has also become a significant part of Erivo’s public persona, serving as a “language without words.” She describes her style as daring and rebellious, reflecting her fearless approach to her career. Erivo’s previous chance at achieving EGOT status, which recognizes individuals who have won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony, came close with her role in “Harriet.” She received Oscar nominations for Best Actress and Best Original Song but ultimately lost to Renée Zellweger for her portrayal of Judy Garland in “Judy.”
As Erivo continues to expand her artistic horizons, she plans to release an album later this year and participate in the second part of “Wicked,” set to premiere in November. With her talent, determination, and fearless approach to her craft, Cynthia Erivo is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.