Cynthia Erivo is seriously on fire right now. This British actress and singer has gone from the West End stage to Hollywood in a big way. Before she even turned 40 she was already racking up awards nominations and winning big. If you only know her from the upcoming Wicked movie you are in for a treat. She has a ton of amazing performances worth checking out. Let's get into some of her best work.
From Broadway to Hollywood: Cynthia Erivo's Amazing Rise to Stardom and Awards Recognition
Cynthia started out in London theater and quickly made a name for herself. She snagged an Emmy a Grammy and a Tony Award all for different versions of The Color Purple. Talk about triple threat! Now she is got another shot at an Oscar for Best Actress thanks to her role in the movie version of Wicked. Could EGOT status be next? It is definitely possible.
Born in London to Nigerian parents Cynthia was raised by her mom Edith. She even named her production company Edith's Daughter after her. People who work with her say she is super focused and commands the screen even when she is in smaller roles like in Luther: The Fallen Sun or Chaos Walking. She just has that presence.
Top 10 Cynthia Erivo Movies and TV Shows You Absolutely Need to Watch Now
Want to get a taste of Cynthia Erivo's talent? Here's a list of 10 must-see movies and TV shows to get you started:
- Wicked (2024): As Elphaba the Wicked Witch of the West Cynthia is set to stun audiences in this movie musical adaptation of the Broadway hit. Keep an eye out for Oscar buzz.
- Harriet (2019): Cynthia earned an Oscar nomination for her powerful and moving portrayal of abolitionist hero Harriet Tubman. A must-watch historical drama.
- Genius: Aretha (2021): She embodies the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin in this National Geographic series. Critics praised her singing and acting earning her an Emmy nod.
- Bad Times at the El Royale (2018): In this stylish thriller Cynthia plays a talented singer caught up in a night of mystery and crime at a hotel. Her musical performance is a highlight.
- Widows (2018): This heist thriller features Cynthia as Belle a babysitter turned getaway driver. Even in a smaller role she makes a big impression with her strength and presence.
- Luther: The Fallen Sun (2023): In this movie spin-off of the popular series Cynthia plays a chief inspector tracking a serial killer alongside Idris Elba's Luther. Expect intense drama.
- Drift (2023): A more personal and vulnerable role for Cynthia as Jacqueline a Liberian refugee trying to build a new life on a Greek island.
- The Outsider (2020): She plays Holly Gibney a unique private investigator in this HBO adaptation of Stephen King's novel. Her performance as the intuitive Holly is captivating.
- Roar (2022): This Apple TV+ anthology series features Cynthia in "The Woman Who Found Bite Marks on Her Skin" a powerful episode about the pressures of career motherhood and societal expectations.
- Chaos Walking (2021): Even in a supporting role in this YA sci-fi movie Cynthia stands out as Hildy a rebel leader in a dystopian world.
Wicked Witch or Wonderful Performer? Cynthia Erivo's Elphaba in Wicked Generating Oscar Talk
Speaking of Wicked all eyes are on Cynthia's performance as Elphaba. This movie musical is a huge deal and early buzz suggests Cynthia is incredible in the role. If she wins the Oscar for this it would complete her EGOT a rare achievement only a few performers have reached.
Critics who have seen early screenings are praising her performance especially her close-up acting and how she portrays Elphaba's sarcasm and vulnerability. They say she brings depth to the character making Elphaba not just an outcast but a relatable and sensible young woman. It looks like Wicked could be another major milestone in Cynthia Erivo's already impressive career and might just land her that coveted Oscar.
More Than Just Singing: Cynthia Erivo's Range Extends Beyond Musical Roles
While Cynthia is known for her amazing voice and musical theater background these roles only show a part of her talent. Movies and TV shows like Widows The Outsider and Chaos Walking demonstrate her range as a dramatic actor. She can do action drama thriller and even sci-fi. She is not just a singer she is a complete performer who can tackle diverse and complex characters.
Whether she is belting out a show-stopping musical number or delivering a nuanced dramatic performance Cynthia Erivo consistently proves she is one of the most talented and versatile actresses working today. Keep watching her career because she is definitely going places.