Cynthia Erivo discusses challenges during 'Wicked' press tours and incident at Singapore premiere

Cynthia Erivo Reflects on 'Intense' Four-Year 'Wicked' Journey, Singapore Incident, and Hollywood Scrutiny

Cynthia Erivo has opened up about the grueling four-year process of filming and promoting the two-part Wicked franchise, describing it as a "challenging experience." In a new interview, the star detailed her close bond with co-star Ariana Grande, a frightening security breach in Singapore, and the complex public perception that followed.

Erivo and Grande made a deliberate choice to nurture their relationship throughout the intense promotional cycle. This included:

• Conducting interviews together.
• Coordinating their outfits for public appearances.

"It's very interesting, watching what people's perception is versus what the reality actually is."

During the Singapore premiere for Wicked: For Good, a man breached security and grabbed Grande. Erivo immediately intervened, pushing the man away. The incident was particularly sensitive for Grande, who was diagnosed with PTSD following the 2017 suicide bombing at her concert in Manchester.

Erivo's response was instinctive:

"A stranger is a stranger. Personal space is still personal space."

Following the event, online reactions included memes depicting Erivo as Grande's bodyguard. Erivo attributes this to "the insidious nature of how we view Black women."

"I think that we haven't really come to terms with the insidious nature of how we view Black women."

The star noted that the incident and the ensuing discourse may have influenced her decision to reduce her participation in Oscar campaigning for the film.

Facts & Career Highlights:

• Tony Award: Won for The Color Purple (2016)
• Daytime Emmy & Grammy: Recipient
• Oscar Nominations: Harriet (2019) and Wicked (2025)
• 'Wicked: For Good': Received no Academy Award nominations.

Despite the lack of a Best Picture nod for the second film, Erivo is keeping busy. She is currently performing in a one-woman show, 'Dracula', in London.

Future aspirations include playing:

• Storm from X-Men.
• Miriam Makeba in an upcoming biopic.

While fans speculate about a third Wicked film, Erivo stated that discussions on the matter are "premature."

Beyond acting, Erivo is involved with The Shameless Fund, a charity launched by her co-star Jonathan Bailey that supports LGBTQ communities.