Cynthia Erivo, the acclaimed actress known for her powerful performances across film, television, and theatre, recently opened up about her unique approach to selecting roles. During a panel discussion at the 70th BFI London Film Festival on 12 October, Erivo emphasised the importance of instinct in her decision-making process.
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The 39-year-old star, recognised for her roles in productions such as “Wicked,” mentioned that she frequently turns down projects that do not resonate with her personally. “I feel like I have an internal metronome that tells me when something is right for me, and when something is not,” she explained, suggesting a deep-seated intuition that guides her career choices.
Erivo’s selectivity in choosing roles has not hindered her career; rather, it has allowed her to engage in ambitious projects that challenge her as an artist. Recently, she completed a remarkable run in a one-woman production of “Dracula” at the West End, where she portrayed not only the titular vampire but also 22 other characters. This production, engaging and taxing, ran from February to May and marked a significant achievement in her theatrical journey.
In a conversation with PEOPLE at the Toronto International Film Festival, where her new drama “Prima Facie” premiered, Erivo expressed her enthusiasm for embracing challenges. She recounted her experience in “Dracula,” conveying how the performance tested her limits, but also left her with a sense of accomplishment. “It feels delightful to have come away from that and to have come through it,” she said of her remarkable performance.
Despite the success of such a demanding role, Erivo was candid about the intensity of the experience, noting, “I don’t know that I will be doing something like that again soon! Never say never. But it was a lot and it took a lot, and I feel stronger for it, but I’m very proud of it.”
Beyond her theatrical ventures, Erivo’s schedule remains packed with exciting projects. She is set to headline a concert at the Hollywood Bowl on 15 October, a venue where she has previously performed in both 2021 and 2025. The singer has been refining her setlist over the past two years, tailoring it to include songs that resonate with her personal style and artistic vision.
Reflecting on her current busy schedule, Erivo remarked, “There’s a lot going on right now, and a lot of it is made up of wishful fulfilment and dreams coming true, and others are things that have surprised me.” Her excitement for upcoming projects indicates a fruitful period in her career, filled with both gratitude and ambition.
Looking ahead, audiences can anticipate more of Erivo’s work in films scheduled for release in 2027. These include “Karoshi,” set to hit theatres on 29 January, “Bad Fairies,” scheduled for 21 May, and “Children of Blood and Bone,” expected to arrive in theatres on 15 January.
With her distinctive instincts guiding her choices and a string of impressive projects on the horizon, Erivo continues to carve out a unique path in the entertainment industry, captivating audiences with her talent and unwavering dedication.