Tony, Grammy and Emmy winner and Oscar nominated Cynthia Erivo has been breaking barriers on stage and on screen by making her mark through representation and storytelling. She is paving the way for black women in entertainment.  

Erivo’s most recent role that has brought her even more recognition is her portrayal of Elphaba in the new Wicked movie based on the Broadway musical “Wicked.” Starring alongside Ariana Grande, Erivo took on one of the most iconic roles in all of musical theater. This was a career- defining moment that showcased her incredible talent and versatility. She was later nominated for Best Actress in a Leading Role for Elphaba in Wicked.  

The role that gave Erivo her first Tony, Emmy, and Grammy was her portrayal of Celie in “The Color Purple,” where she received a Tony for Best Actress in a Musical, a Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album, and shares an Emmy with the cast for Outstanding On-Camera Musical Performance. “The Color Purple” debuted on Broadway in Dec., 2015, and lasted 33 shows before it ended in Jan., 2017. It was nominated for four Tony awards at the 2016 award show.  

Other than her role of Celie on Broadway, Erivo has also played Harriet Tubman in the 2019 biopic “.” She delivered a powerful performance, which earned Cynthia her first Oscar nomination. Her portrayal captured Tubman’s bravery and resilience, bringing the legendary abolitionist’s story to life with intensity and depth. The role cemented Erivo as a leading actress and showcased her ability to embody strong, trailblazing women.  

Cynthia Erivo was born in 1987 and raised in South London. At the young age of 11, Cynthia grew her skills by acting in a stage production of “The Caucasian Chalk Circle.” In college, she majored in music psychology, but later dropped out and applied to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts. Erivo’s first roles out of theater school included, “I was Looking at the Ceiling and Then I saw the Sky,” “Sister Act,” “Henry IV” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” 

Cynthia Erivo is a force in the entertainment industry, using her talent to break barriers and amplify women’s stories. From “Harriet” to “Wicked,” she brings depth to every role while pushing for greater representation. Her impact makes her a perfect figure to celebrate during Women’s History Month, reminding us why bold, fearless women deserve the spotlight.  

Erivo is set to host the 78th annual Tony Awards in early June.