Cynthia Erivo‘s transformation as Elphaba in Wicked: For Good takes center stage this fall, as the acclaimed artist returns to continue her journey in the much-anticipated sequel. After her major breakout as the green-skinned heroine in the first film, Erivo previews the dramatic shifts fans can expect in the upcoming release, set for November.
Exploring Elphaba’s New Depths Through Chakras
In a recent Billboard cover feature published June 2, Cynthia Erivo detailed how she approached the evolving character of Elphaba for Wicked: For Good. Erivo, interviewed by Billboard Pride editor Stephen Daw, explained her process for bringing a more mature version of the character to life across the two films.
“Elphaba in act one, or film one, it’s head and heart … Elphaba in act two is head, sacral,”
—Cynthia Erivo, Artist
She went on to describe how the character’s chakra alignment evolves, grounding the role and connecting it to a new emotional core.
“It’s grounded. It’s really earthy, feet-on-the-ground. She’s able to access her rage more.”
—Cynthia Erivo, Artist
How Transformation Shaped Performance and Appearance
The change in Elphaba’s disposition is not just internal. Erivo shared that her physical performance, as well as specific choices in scent and makeup, were adjusted to reflect this transformation.
“The scent I wore changed. The makeup changed,”
—Cynthia Erivo, Artist
She emphasized that these seemingly subtle adjustments signify Elphaba’s journey into a more confident and formidable presence.
“Little shifts that bring you to a more mature version of who Elphaba becomes. And she is delicious in this next one.”
—Cynthia Erivo, Artist
Anticipated Success and Musical Achievements
Wicked: For Good will follow in the footsteps of the original’s considerable accomplishments. The previous film not only became the highest-grossing musical adaptation but also earned 10 Oscar nominations, including a best actress nod for Cynthia Erivo. The soundtrack made waves on the Billboard 200, debuting at No. 2 and reaching widespread listeners.
“The cast was like, ‘Oh, so it’s just in the ether now? People are just listening to it on their way to work at this point?’”
—Cynthia Erivo, Artist
Musical Ventures Beyond the Silver Screen
Beyond her role as Elphaba, Erivo is also preparing for the release of her second album, I Forgive You, set to drop on June 6 via Verve and Republic Records. This project marks a new artistic chapter for the performer, thanks, in part, to connections provided by her Wicked co-star Ariana Grande. Through Grande, Erivo met Republic Records’ chairwoman Wendy Goldstein, who played a crucial role in guiding the album.
“Wendy is a very singular human being who just gets it,”
—Cynthia Erivo, Artist
“It was the first time that everything became really clear. To have someone who understands who you are as a musician and a singer and an artist was just a new experience within this space for me as an artist.”
—Cynthia Erivo, Artist
Looking Ahead to Wicked: For Good
With Wicked: For Good slated for a fall release, anticipation continues to build for Cynthia Erivo’s bold, reimagined portrayal of Elphaba. Supported by a talented cast and creative partnerships, Erivo seems poised to deliver an even richer, more dynamic performance in what promises to be one of the year’s most significant film events. As fans await the sequel and her album, Erivo’s evolution as both artist and performer stands out as a central story in musical theater and film for 2024.
