Would Cynthia Erivo Take on the Broadway Role in ‘Wicked: For Good’?
Synopsis
Cynthia Erivo discusses the possibility of stepping into the shoes of Elphaba in the Broadway adaptation of ‘Wicked: For Good’. In an interview, she explains her reasons for not pursuing the role, emphasizing the importance of allowing other talented women the opportunity to shine.
Key Takeaways
Cynthia Erivo prioritizes inclusivity in theater over personal ambition.
The film adaptation of ‘Wicked: For Good’ is creating new opportunities for actresses.
Erivo's decision reflects a growing trend of selflessness among artists.
Representation in theater is crucial, and Erivo’s choice supports that movement.
Elphaba’s character has a rich legacy with many talented actresses stepping into the role.
Los Angeles, Jan 4 (NationPress) Following a wave of memes and discussions surrounding her actions during the press tour for ‘Wicked: For Good’, actress Cynthia Erivo has clarified her stance on whether she would assume the role in the Broadway adaptation of ‘Wicked: For Good’.
In a recent episode of ‘The View’, she disclosed that she will not be taking on the role as she believes it would be a selfish choice, as reported by ‘People’. Erivo expressed, “I feel like it would be a little selfish. We’ve been given such a gift with this (film) version, and everyone is seeing it. It’s in everybody’s houses right now, and people can go to the cinema and see it.”
She further explained her reasoning for not portraying Elphaba on Broadway by stating, “What’s wonderful about this particular film now is that I think it provides more room for other women to go do (the role on Broadway).”
According to ‘People’, her rationale—that the film’s success in cinemas will inspire more actresses to aspire for the role of Elphaba in theater—was well received by the show's hosts.
Show host Joy Behar remarked, “(It gives) someone else the opportunity.” Sunny Hostin added, “That is so generous, so generous.” Behar then praised Erivo, stating, “You’re not only wonderful, you’re a terrific person.”
Idina Menzel was the original Elphaba on Broadway in 2003, and since then, numerous actresses including Stephanie J. Block, Shoshana Bean, Lindsay Mendez, and Jessica Vosk have taken on the iconic role. Currently, Lencia Kebede is the Elphaba on Broadway, making history as the first Black actress to play the role full-time. Kebede made her debut in March.
Erivo previously made her Broadway debut as Celie in a revival of ‘The Color Purple’ in 2015, earning the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 2016.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the significance of Cynthia Erivo's decision in the context of representation and opportunity in the performing arts. Her selfless choice not to pursue the Broadway role of Elphaba allows for a broader range of voices to be heard, fostering inclusivity in theater.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won't Cynthia Erivo play Elphaba on Broadway?
Cynthia Erivo believes it would be a selfish choice, and she feels that the film adaptation's success should open the door for other women to take on the role.
Who is currently playing Elphaba on Broadway?
The current Elphaba on Broadway is Lencia Kebede, who made history as the first Black actress to portray the character full-time.
What award did Cynthia Erivo win for her Broadway debut?
Cynthia Erivo won the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her performance as Celie in the 2015 revival of ‘The Color Purple’.
