Sunday Sitdown with Willie Geist: Cynthia Erivo on Oscar-Nominated "Elphaba" Role in "Wicked" Movie

Release Date: January 26, 2025

Introduction

In this captivating episode of NBC's "Sunday Sitdown with Willie Geist," host Willie Geist engages in an in-depth conversation with Cynthia Erivo, the acclaimed actress portraying Elphaba—the iconic Wicked Witch of the West—in the highly anticipated movie adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, Wicked. The episode delves into Cynthia's journey, her connection to the role, the collaborative process with co-star Ariana Grande, and the intricate transformation involved in bringing Elphaba to life on the big screen.

Audition and Casting: A Dream Realized

Cynthia Erivo shares her long-standing affinity for Wicked, detailing how her early exposure to the musical during drama school fostered a deep connection with the character of Elphaba. At [04:46], Cynthia recounts, "I decided to take myself on a solo date to Wicked in London and immediately fell in love with the story and with these characters."

When the opportunity to audition for the film arose, Cynthia approached it with a blend of preparation and guarded optimism. At [05:23], she explains, "I really wanted to be a part of it, but I didn't want to set any expectations that maybe they would call me." Her dedication paid off when director John M. Chu informed her, "We found Elphaba," a moment that left her "crying" and profoundly moved ([07:37]).

Connection to Elphaba: Embracing the Outsider

Cynthia's portrayal of Elphaba is deeply personal. She relates to the character's sense of being an outsider, which resonates with her own experiences. At [08:11], she remarks, "I know what it feels like to be an outsider and feel different. And I think that's why I cared so much about this particular character."

This emotional connection fuels her performance, allowing her to channel her own feelings through Elphaba, thereby enriching the character's depth and relatability.

Collaborative Chemistry with Ariana Grande

The dynamic between Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, who plays Glinda the Good Witch, is a highlight of the conversation. Cynthia describes their first meeting and the instant rapport they shared. At [15:38], she recalls, "We sit down and sing for good together. And we realize our voices work together. And that, for us, is a really big moment."

Their collaborative spirit extends beyond the set, fostering a genuine friendship that enhances their on-screen chemistry. Cynthia emphasizes the importance of this bond, stating, "We wanted to build friendship outside of it, which is what we have now" ([17:34]).

Live Singing: Preserving Authenticity

A notable aspect of the Wicked movie is the decision for actors to perform live vocals on set. Cynthia explains the significance of this choice at [18:35], saying, "It meant that we were further connected to the work that we were doing." This approach ensures that performances are authentic, with visible expressions of emotion accompanying the music, thereby heightening the film's emotional impact.

Transformation: The Elphaba Makeup Process

Portraying Elphaba involves an extensive makeup regimen, which Cynthia approaches with enthusiasm. At [20:07], she shares, "I wanted to do practical makeup because I wanted to see the transformation as well." The process, lasting up to three hours daily, allows Cynthia to embody Elphaba fully, creating a believable and immersive character.

Cynthia fondly describes the gradual transformation, highlighting the collaborative nature of the makeup team: "It was little pieces of method that strung together that I sort of enjoyed being a part of" ([21:00]).

Seeing Elphaba: An Emotional Milestone

A poignant moment occurs when Cynthia and Willie visit Times Square to view a massive Wicked billboard featuring her likeness. Cynthia describes the experience as "surreal" and "emotional," underscoring the culmination of her hard work and the tangible realization of her role ([22:26]).

Broadway Community: A Familial Bond

Reflecting on her Broadway roots, Cynthia speaks to the close-knit community and the familial bonds formed through shared performances. At [31:15], she notes, "We end up becoming a bit of a family." This sense of camaraderie translates into a supportive environment, enriching her theatrical experience and informing her performance in the film.

Personal Reflections: Gratitude and Pride

Cynthia expresses immense gratitude and pride in her journey, acknowledging the support of her family and the fulfillment of long-held dreams. She shares heartfelt moments involving her mother, who eagerly anticipates the film's premiere and supports her daughter's achievements ([33:03]).

Conclusion: Anticipation and Legacy

As the conversation draws to a close, Cynthia and Willie reflect on the movie's significant anticipation and its potential to introduce Wicked to a new generation. Cynthia remarks, "This has been a ride," encapsulating her satisfaction with the project's fruition and her excitement for its reception ([27:07]).

Willie concludes by celebrating Cynthia's achievements and the promising future of the Wicked movie, emphasizing the film's ability to elevate a cherished story to new heights.

Notable Quotes

• Cynthia Erivo on Realizing Her Dream:
  "This is one of those moments where it's just like, oh, this huge thing is happening. But I'm going to take it bit by bit because maybe it's not real. And then it is." ([02:40])

• On the Audition Process:
  "I knew I had Put everything on the table. I knew I had given everything I could give." ([07:28])

• On Live Singing:
  "What we're doing at drama school was using this music to sort of find a space for myself." ([06:36])

• On Collaborative Relationships:
  "We knew that from the beginning. That's what we needed to do." ([16:52])

Final Thoughts

Cynthia Erivo's conversation on the "Sunday Sitdown" podcast offers an intimate glimpse into the dedication, passion, and collaborative spirit that define her portrayal of Elphaba in Wicked. Her reflections not only celebrate her personal achievements but also highlight the collective effort behind bringing this beloved story to the silver screen. For fans of Wicked, musicals, and character-driven performances, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and heartfelt moments.