Cynthia Erivo is a multi-talented actress, singer, and songwriter known for her powerful performances on stage and screen. She has won a Tony Award, a Grammy Award, and has been nominated for two Academy Awards and a Primetime Emmy Award. With a growing list of remarkable roles, Erivo has firmly established herself in Hollywood. In this article, we explore the best Cynthia Erivo movies and TV shows that highlight her versatility and talent.
Cynthia Erivo’s Rise to Fame
Born in Stockwell, South London, Cynthia Erivo began her acting career in theatre, starring in a 2011 stage production of The Umbrellas of Cherbourg. She gained widespread recognition for playing Celie in the Broadway revival of The Color Purple (2015-2017), a role that earned her the 2016 Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical. Her transition from theatre to film and television has been seamless, showcasing her range across different genres.
Best Cynthia Erivo Movies
1. Widows (2018) – Belle
In this gripping heist thriller directed by Steve McQueen, Erivo plays Belle, a tough and determined single mother who gets caught up in a dangerous criminal world. Widows features a star-studded cast, including Viola Davis, Michelle Rodriguez, and Elizabeth Debicki. Erivo’s performance stands out as she brings intensity and emotional depth to her character.
2. Bad Times at the El Royale (2018) – Darlene Sweet
In this neo-noir thriller, Erivo plays Darlene Sweet, a struggling singer who finds herself entangled in a web of mystery at a rundown hotel. Her breathtaking vocals and compelling performance make this one of her most memorable roles. The film’s eerie atmosphere and suspenseful storytelling keep audiences captivated from start to finish.
3. Harriet (2019) – Harriet Tubman
Arguably one of her most significant roles, Cynthia Erivo plays the legendary abolitionist Harriet Tubman in this biopic. Her outstanding portrayal earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Additionally, she co-wrote and performed the song Stand Up, which was also nominated for Best Original Song. This film is a must-watch for those interested in history and inspiring performances.
4. Chaos Walking (2021) – Hildy
Based on the popular sci-fi novel, Chaos Walking features Erivo as Hildy, the leader of a colony of women living on an alien planet. Starring alongside Tom Holland and Daisy Ridley, Erivo adds a strong presence to the film, balancing action with emotional depth.
5. Needle in a Timestack (2021) – Janine Mikkelsen
This time-travel romance drama sees Erivo portraying Janine, a woman caught in a complex love story that spans across time. With thought-provoking themes and a unique narrative, this film showcases Erivo’s ability to bring sincerity to unconventional stories.
6. Pinocchio (2022) – Blue Fairy
In Disney’s live-action adaptation of Pinocchio, Erivo takes on the magical role of the Blue Fairy. Her rendition of When You Wish Upon a Star is mesmerizing, proving once again her exceptional vocal talent.
7. Wicked (2024-2025) – Elphaba
Erivo stars as Elphaba in the highly anticipated film adaptation of the Broadway musical Wicked. This role is a perfect fit for her powerhouse vocals and dramatic acting abilities. Part one is set to release in 2024, with part two following in 2025.
Best Cynthia Erivo TV Shows
1. Chewing Gum (2015) – Guest Role
This British comedy series, created by Michaela Coel, features Erivo in a guest role. Though brief, her appearance in the show adds to her diverse acting portfolio.
2. The Outsider (2020) – Holly Gibney
Based on Stephen King’s novel, The Outsider is a chilling crime drama where Erivo plays Holly Gibney, a brilliant but unconventional investigator. Her portrayal was widely praised, with critics noting her ability to bring intelligence and intrigue to the role.
3. Genius: Aretha (2021) – Aretha Franklin
In this National Geographic anthology series, Erivo steps into the shoes of the legendary Aretha Franklin. Her powerful performance earned her a Primetime Emmy nomination. She not only acted but also sang, delivering an awe-inspiring tribute to the Queen of Soul.
4. Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur (2023) – Dr. Ojo
This animated series sees Erivo lending her voice to the character Dr. Ojo. Her voice-acting skills add a dynamic element to this fun and adventurous show.
5. Robogobo (2025) – The Slink
Erivo continues her voice-acting career in Disney’s Robogobo, where she plays The Slink. This upcoming show is expected to be another exciting addition to her growing TV career.
Awards and Recognitions
Cynthia Erivo has received numerous accolades for her performances. Some of her most notable awards include:
- Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical (The Color Purple, 2016)
- Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album (The Color Purple, 2016)
- Primetime Emmy Nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress (Genius: Aretha, 2021)
- Academy Award Nominations (Harriet, 2019 – Best Actress and Best Original Song)
FAQs About Cynthia Erivo Movies and TV Shows
1. What is Cynthia Erivo’s most famous movie?
Her most famous movie is Harriet (2019), in which she played Harriet Tubman. The film earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
2. What TV show did Cynthia Erivo play Aretha Franklin in?
She portrayed Aretha Franklin in Genius: Aretha (2021), which aired on National Geographic.
3. Is Cynthia Erivo in Wicked?
Yes, she plays Elphaba in the upcoming film adaptation of Wicked (2024-2025).
4. What was Cynthia Erivo’s first movie?
Her first major film role was in Widows (2018), where she played Belle.
5. Has Cynthia Erivo won an Oscar?
While she has been nominated for two Academy Awards, she has yet to win one.
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