Cynthia Erivo empowered by The Color Purple role to more openly embrace her identity, the acclaimed actress shared how her portrayal in the Broadway revival became a personal turning point, inspiring her journey toward self-acceptance. The Tony and Grammy winner revealed these transformative experiences unfolded during and after her celebrated run, leading her to publicly share her truth and inspire others in the process.
How The Color Purple Helped Cynthia Erivo Embrace Her Queerness
Long before Cynthia Erivo came out publicly in British Vogue in 2022, she confided in those closest to her about her sexuality. However, it was her first appearance as Celie Harris Johnson in the Broadway production of The Color Purple—based on Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel—that became the catalyst for her personal evolution. Taking on the central character, Celie, Erivo not only delivered a performance that would earn her the Tony Award for Best Leading Actress in a Musical, but also found the opportunity to explore her own queerness in a profound way.
The actress recalled how the role provided a space for self-exploration and acceptance, coinciding with her journey offstage. In a recent interview, she explained that the process of portraying Celie—who discovers and comes to accept her own identity over time—mirrored her own personal growth and gave her the confidence to finally live authentically.
“I hadn’t really ever explored [my queerness], I hadn’t really ever discovered or understood or really learned about it,”
she told Billboard. —Cynthia Erivo, Actress
Playing Celie was a chance for Erivo to observe personal transformation unfold both through the character and within herself. She described how inhabiting Celie’s world meant embracing parts of her identity she had not previously examined, making the role uniquely meaningful.
“I was like, ‘Oh, I get to play this woman who is exploring and learning about her own queerness at the same time as trying to discover what love is.’ This sort of wonderful thing happened at the same time.”
—Cynthia Erivo, Actress
The impact of the role extended far past professional recognition. As Erivo immersed herself in the two-year run, she recognized the parallel between her character’s search for love and understanding and her own journey toward self-discovery. She noted that the experience enabled her to grow more comfortable with her true self on stage and in her personal life. This newfound comfort gradually spilled over into her broader career, influencing her demeanor whether she was acting, singing, or in the studio.
“I got to do the same for myself,”
she continued, adding,
“It’s like your feet finally hit the ground.”
—Cynthia Erivo, Actress
Cynthia Erivo’s Coming Out Focused on Visibility and Empowerment
Reflecting on her decision to come out publicly in British Vogue, Erivo emphasized that this step was never about personal validation, but about increasing representation and visibility. Speaking with Billboard, she pointed out that being open with her identity aimed to inspire others to confidently live as their authentic selves, offering encouragement and challenging stereotypes in the entertainment industry and beyond.
“I think I was actively looking for those who were encouraged to be more themselves,”
she said. —Cynthia Erivo, Actress
She acknowledged that, despite her openness, not everyone might be accepting or supportive, and this was beyond her control.
“I can’t change a person’s opinion of me; if they want to feel some way, there is nothing I can do about that.”
—Cynthia Erivo, Actress
Regardless of reactions, Erivo found excitement in the idea of serving as a visible example for others, particularly for those who may be struggling with their own identity. Her hope was that sharing her experience would motivate more people to express themselves without fear and pursue their passions fully.
“But I was so excited about being able to at least be one more face where someone could say, ‘Oh, my God, she did it and can still do it. She’s still creating, she’s still making. So maybe I can also do the same.’”
—Cynthia Erivo, Actress
Expanding Artistic Impact and Representation
Since her Broadway breakthrough, Cynthia Erivo has continued to deliver widely acclaimed performances in projects like Harriet, earning recognition for her powerful portrayals. In addition to her musical and theatrical achievements, she is set to take on new and creatively challenging roles. Among upcoming projects is her lead part in a three-night production of Jesus Christ Superstar, which has drawn both anticipation and some controversy. Erivo is also preparing for a bold stage encore as she reimagines Bram Stoker’s iconic character, Dracula, in a one-woman adaptation where she will play multiple supporting roles alongside the lead.
Through each new role, Erivo seeks to broaden representation and challenge expectations in entertainment. As she continues to break barriers and advocate for inclusive storytelling, her experience in The Color Purple stands as a key influence, shaping both her sense of self and her intentions to empower others.
The Color Purple remains available for streaming on Apple TV and Max, allowing new audiences to discover the story and the impact of Cynthia Erivo’s groundbreaking performance as Celie Harris Johnson.
