Cynthia Erivo calls fan-edited Wicked Poster “hurtful,”: 'I probably should have called my friends'

Cynthia Erivo, celebrated for her powerhouse performances, has taken a vocal stance against a fan-altered Wicked poster that recently went viral on social media. The poster, which reimagines the upcoming film’s visual style to resemble the iconic Broadway promotional art, obscures Erivo’s face, drawing criticism from the actress who plays Elphaba in the highly anticipated movie adaptation.

Speaking candidly at the CFDA Fashion Awards, Erivo, 37, expressed her protective sentiment toward the role, explaining that the edited poster dismisses the artistic intent behind the original imagery. "I am a real-life human being, who chose to look right down the barrel of the camera to connect with the viewer," she stated, underscoring how the official poster was carefully crafted to build a unique relationship between Elphaba and the audience.

Erivo elaborated that her frustration stems from a deeper cultural significance, as Wicked is not only a beloved story but also an opportunity to celebrate authentic representation. By editing out her presence, Erivo feels that fans are dismissing the real-world implications of her portrayal and the progress it represents in Hollywood. Her co-star, Ariana Grande, who plays Glinda, weighed in on the situation, expressing empathy for Erivo’s concerns and acknowledging the enormous public interest around Wicked’s adaptation. Grande described the fan enthusiasm as both exhilarating and challenging, emphasizing that she and Erivo are adjusting to the “massive attention” surrounding the movie.

The debate around the fan-edited poster has sparked broader discussions about representation and respect for actors’ roles in culturally significant projects. While Erivo appreciates fans’ excitement, she remains dedicated to preserving the authenticity and integrity of her role as Elphaba, encouraging supporters to engage with the film’s official material and to embrace its deeper meaning. Wicked, directed by Jon M. Chu, is set to release on November 27, with a second part arriving in 2025, and fans are eagerly awaiting to see Erivo’s full performance in the iconic green makeup and character that promises to redefine the classic role.