Cynthia Erivo, the acclaimed actress known for her role in ‘Wicked,’ recently opened up about her journey following the release of the much-anticipated films adapted from the popular Broadway show. In an interview with Variety, the 39-year-old reflected on her experiences during the extensive promotional campaign for both ‘Wicked,’ which debuted in November 2024, and its sequel ‘Wicked: For Good,’ released in November 2025.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/cynthia-erivo-ariana-grande-052726-88f5ccd6caca42d485664d58412fe351.jpg)
Speaking candidly, Erivo shared insights into her close friendship with co-star Ariana Grande, whom she texts nearly every day. “I think that people didn’t really believe that we were actually friends,” Erivo explained. She attributed some of the misunderstanding to a lack of familiarity with her character, stating, “If I’m a friend, then I’m a friend. If I’m not, then I’m not.”
The duo’s bond deepened throughout the challenging promotional engagements for the movies, which started at the 2024 Academy Awards. During this period, the two stars supported each other through what Erivo described as a demanding and surreal experience. “We were really trying to take care of each other,” she remarked, highlighting the pressures they both faced amid the spotlight.
Erivo also addressed the online speculations surrounding their friendship, making a sarcastic remark about the public’s perception versus reality. She noted how multiple people, including self-proclaimed psychologists, seemed to analyse their relationship without knowing the truth of their dynamic. “It’s very interesting, watching what people’s perception is versus what the reality actually is,” she reflected.
The actress emphasised that the fervour surrounding ‘Wicked’ has transformed her life in many ways. “It’s its own storm in a teacup,” Erivo commented, suggesting that while the excitement was overwhelming, it bore beautiful changes for her career.
In her memoir, ‘Simply More: A Book for Anyone Who Has Been Told They’re Too Much,’ published in November 2025, Erivo disclosed the commitment she and Grande made to each other’s welfare prior to filming. “We committed to protecting and caring for each other through this process,” she wrote. This declaration was a response to the common narrative of co-stars letting personal egos interfere, complicating the creative process. Their intent to foster a supportive atmosphere stood in stark contrast to the typical stories that often circulate in the entertainment industry.
Away from ‘Wicked,’ Erivo is currently captivating West End audiences with her one-woman adaptation of Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula,’ directed by Kip Williams. In this unique production, she takes on the challenging role of the vampire along with 22 other characters, showcasing her versatility as a performer.
Looking ahead, Erivo is set to feature in several promising projects. Upcoming films include ‘Children of Blood and Bone,’ scheduled for release on January 15, 2027, along with the musical drama ‘The Road Home’ directed by Bill Condon and a new adaptation of ‘Othello’ helmed by David Oyelowo.
Cynthia Erivo’s journey, marked by significant achievements and profound friendships, continues to inspire many. As she steps into various roles, her commitment to authenticity and connection remains at the forefront of her career. Her candid reflections offer a glimpse into the realities of navigating the highs and lows of fame while nurturing meaningful relationships in an often challenging industry.