50 Facts About Cynthia Erivo

Early Life and Education

Cynthia Erivo's journey to stardom began in South London, where she was born to Nigerian immigrant parents. Her early life and education laid the foundation for her remarkable career.

1. Cynthia Erivo was born on January 8, 1987, in Stockwell, South London.
2. Her mother, Edith, was a nurse who experienced the Nigerian Civil War at the age of 15.
3. Erivo has a sister named Nicolette.
4. Her parents separated when she was very young.
5. She attended La Retraite Roman Catholic Girls' School in Clapham Park.
6. Initially, she pursued a music psychology degree at the University of East London in 2004.
7. Later, she applied to and trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), graduating with a bachelor's degree in acting in 2010.

Early Career and Breakthrough

Erivo's early career saw her taking on various roles in British television and theater, which eventually led to her breakthrough role in The Color Purple.

8. Erivo's early career included roles in British television programs such as Chewing Gum and The Tunnel.
9. Her first stage role was in Marine Parade by Simon Stephens at the Brighton Festival.
10. She played Sister Mary Clarence / Deloris Van Cartier in a UK tour of the stage musical Sister Act.
11. Erivo originated the role of Celie Harris in the Menier Chocolate Factory production of The Color Purple in 2013.
12. This role led to her Broadway debut in the 2015 revival of The Color Purple.
13. Her performance in The Color Purple earned her the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical.
14. She also won the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album for her work in The Color Purple.

Film and Television Success

Erivo's talent soon caught the attention of Hollywood, leading to significant roles in film and television.

15. Erivo made her film debut in 2018 with the neo-noir thriller Bad Times at the El Royale.
16. In the same year, she starred in the heist thriller film Widows.
17. In 2019, she portrayed American abolitionist Harriet Tubman in the biopic Harriet.
18. Her performance in Harriet earned her a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actress.
19. She also wrote and performed the song "Stand Up" for the Harriet soundtrack, which was nominated for Best Original Song.
20. Erivo captivated audiences with her performance as Aretha Franklin in the National Geographic series Genius: Aretha.

Upcoming Roles and Personal Life

Erivo continues to take on exciting new roles while maintaining a strong presence in her personal life and community.

21. Erivo is set to play Elphaba in the film adaptation of the musical Wicked, opposite Ariana Grande.
22. She is known for her strong work ethic and dedication to her craft.
23. Erivo released a children’s book titled Remember to Dream, Ebere in 2020.
24. She is celebrated for her striking fashion choices, often incorporating elements of her Nigerian heritage.
25. Erivo takes pride in her Nigerian roots and often celebrates her cultural heritage through her work and personal life.

Awards and Recognition

Erivo's talent has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades throughout her career.

26. Her performance in The Color Purple earned her the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical.
27. She won the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album for The Color Purple.
28. Erivo received a nomination for the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical.
29. Her role in Harriet earned her a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actress.
30. The song "Stand Up" from Harriet was nominated for Best Original Song.

Musical Talents and Concerts

Erivo's incredible vocal abilities have also led to a successful music career, including concerts and a debut album.

31. Known for her incredible vocal range, Erivo has stunned audiences with her powerful high notes.
32. During her time playing Aretha Franklin, Erivo recorded the vocals for her debut album, Ch. 1 Vs.1.
33. Erivo’s concert series, Legendary Women’s Voices, features music performed or written by women who have influenced her sound.
34. The San Diego Symphony’s Bayside Summer Nights Concert Series included Erivo’s Legendary Women’s Voices concert.
35. Erivo’s concerts are expected to be decadent evenings full of music, featuring songs by legendary female singers such as Aretha Franklin, Nina Simone, and Ella Fitzgerald.

Social Awareness and Philanthropy

Erivo uses her platform to advocate for social change and support various charitable initiatives.

36. Erivo is socially aware and uses her platform to call for social change.
37. She has shown her support for the LGBTQ community.
38. Erivo has been involved in various charitable initiatives throughout her career.
39. She engages with her community through various initiatives, including her support for the LGBTQ community during Pride Weekend.
40. Erivo’s children’s book, Remember to Dream, Ebere, encourages young readers to chase their dreams and overcome obstacles.

Personal Growth and Role Models

Erivo's journey has been one of personal growth and self-discovery, influenced by her role models and experiences.

41. Erivo credits Oprah Winfrey for the best piece of career advice she’s ever received: that she is allowed to say "no" from time to time.
42. She has learned the importance of perseverance from her role model, Aretha Franklin.
43. Erivo’s inspiration comes from the stories she tells and the characters she portrays.
44. She aims to move the needle forward for women and women of color by playing complex, strong, and thoughtful characters.
45. Erivo is specific about the kind of characters she wants to play, choosing roles that resonate with her and allow her to tell meaningful stories.

Impact and Legacy

Erivo's impact on the entertainment industry and her legacy as a role model for women and women of color are undeniable.

46. Erivo’s performances have a significant impact on women and women of color.
47. She aims to provide examples of strong, complex, and thoughtful characters that can inspire others.
48. Erivo’s journey has been one of personal growth and self-discovery.
49. She is acutely aware of the gravitas of each choice she makes on a professional, personal, and social level due to her public stature.
50. Erivo’s legacy extends beyond her performances, inspiring women and women of color to pursue careers in the arts and tell meaningful stories about their experiences.

Cynthia Erivo: A Star Shining Bright

Cynthia Erivo's journey from South London to global stardom is nothing short of inspiring. With her powerful performances in The Color Purple and Harriet, she's proven her talent time and again. Her dedication to her craft, combined with her Nigerian heritage, adds a unique depth to her roles. Erivo's not just an actress; she's a singer, songwriter, and author, showcasing her versatility. Her upcoming role in Wicked is highly anticipated and will likely be another milestone in her career. Beyond her professional achievements, Erivo's commitment to social causes and her support for the LGBTQ community make her a role model. Her story is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the power of following one's dreams. Cynthia Erivo continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.