Cynthia Erivo Shines Amidst Controversy: The Journey of a Potential EGOT Winner

By Rob Redding

Editor & Publisher

NEW YORK, NY, February 21, 2025, 11 p.m - As anticipation builds for the Hollywood Bowl's upcoming production of “Jesus Christ Superstar,” which will feature Cynthia Erivo in the iconic role of Jesus, the multifaceted performer finds herself at the center of both excitement and controversy. Scheduled for one weekend in August 2025, the casting decision has ignited a firestorm among some religious groups, who decry the choice of a Black woman for the role as blasphemous. Yet, amid this backlash, support from Erivo’s fans swells, who eagerly await her powerful vocal performances and magnetic stage presence.

This pivotal moment in Erivo’s career follows a trajectory marked by critical acclaim and public scrutiny. The British actress of Nigerian descent previously faced significant backlash for her portrayal of Harriet Tubman in the 2019 film “Harriet.” Audiences were divided, with some questioning the authenticity of a British actress depicting an American abolitionist. This tension escalated when Erivo, responding to a Twitter user's comment questioning her casting, allegedly tweeted about a "ghetto American accent." The comment led to a fresh wave of criticism, with one user lamenting, "Why is a British actress playing someone so inherently American? It feels wrong," reflecting a sentiment shared by some viewers. Such challenges made Erivo’s rise to prominence all the more compelling—a journey defined by her resilience in the face of adversity.

As Erivo steps onto the stage in 2025, she does so not just as a celebrated actress but as a significant figure in the theater community. Recently, she has been generating buzz with her co-starring role in the highly anticipated film adaptation of “Wicked,” where her talent shines alongside pop superstar Ariana Grande. As Erivo navigates the promotional whirlwind, her interactions with Grande have become the subject of public fascination. Clips of Erivo inadvertently rejecting Grande's attempts at physical contact during interviews have gone viral, leading fans to voice their wish to see the two hold hands—an innocent desire particularly notable given Erivo’s relationship with actress Lena Waithe.

Since 2020, Erivo has been in a relationship with Waithe, best known for her work on the Showtime series “The Chi” and in projects like “Master of None” and “This Is Us.” While fans adore Erivo and nudge for heartwarming interactions with Grande, they celebrate her private life as well, recognizing the joy and support she finds in her relationship with Waithe. This intersection of personal and professional realms reflects a broader narrative of Erivo's journey, embodying the complexity of a modern artist in the public eye.

The upcoming awards season promises to be a milestone for Erivo, as her performance in “Wicked” has garnered strong critical acclaim. With the potential for an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony to her name—an achievement known as EGOT—Erivo stands on the verge of a remarkable accomplishment. Her recent honor from GLAAD for raising visibility for queer performers adds another layer to her achievements, further solidifying her place as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry.

As the Broadway community prepares for the Tony Awards, where Erivo will take on the hosting duties previously held by Ariana DeBose, fans and critics alike are abuzz with the possibility of her entering EGOT territory in the near future. Throughout her career, Erivo has proven herself to be not just a versatile talent, but also a voice for the marginalized, using her art to shed light on important social issues.

With each performance, Erivo continues to defy expectations, challenging norms and embracing her identity as a queer artist unapologetically. Whether soaring to new heights in “Wicked,” making history in “Jesus Christ Superstar,” or navigating the complexities of fame and personal relationships, Cynthia Erivo remains a force of nature—a rising star poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of theater and beyond.

In an industry often marred by limitations, Erivo’s journey is an inspiring narrative of resilience, representation, and the pursuit of excellence. As audiences prepare to witness her next chapter, it is clear that Cynthia Erivo is not just an artist to watch; she is on a trajectory that may soon lead her to the hallowed halls of EGOT achievement, a testament to her remarkable journey in the entertainment landscape.