How Cynthia Erivo Survived ‘Wicked’ — and Thrived: ‘People Thought I Was Being Myself, Even Though I Was Green’
Cynthia Erivo reflects on her challenging experience while starring in the film adaptation of 'Wicked' alongside Ariana Grande. Despite the scrutiny and speculation surrounding their friendship, Erivo emphasizes the genuine bond they share. Currently, she is performing in a one-woman show, continuing to navigate her career amidst public perception.
- ▪Cynthia Erivo describes her time in 'Wicked' as a challenging experience.
- ▪She and co-star Ariana Grande made a conscious effort to nurture their friendship during the film's promotion.
- ▪Erivo notes that public perception often misinterprets their relationship, despite their daily communication.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Zoe McConnell for Variety Home Legit Features May 27, 2026 8:00am PT How Cynthia Erivo Survived ‘Wicked’ — and Thrived: ‘People Thought I Was Being Myself, Even Though I Was Green’ By K.J. Yossman Photographs by Zoe McConnell When Cynthia Erivo describes life inside the “Wicked” machine — the double-feature adaptation of the long-running Broadway musical — it’s hard not to picture a woman swept up by a cyclone. “We were holding on by threads,” Erivo says of the past four years, “and we were really trying to take care of each other.” “We,” of course, refers to Erivo and her co-star, Ariana Grande, the Glinda to Erivo’s Elphaba.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Variety.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from Variety
