SZA criticises online attacks on Cynthia Erivo amid 'Wicked' promotions as 'classic misogynoir'

SZA is calling out online attacks aimed at Cynthia Erivo after the actor was mocked for stepping in to protect Ariana Grande during the Wicked: For Good press tour. The behaviour directed at Erivo has been widely criticised, with SZA describing the reaction as “classic misogynoir”.

Cynthia Erivo has faced ongoing trolling throughout the film’s promotional circuit. Social media users have picked apart her interactions with Ariana Grande, suggesting she is overly protective, particularly after a moment at the Singapore premiere where a fan appeared to heckle the singer.

While Erivo has not commented, SZA publicly commenting under an Instagran post that addressed viral memes mocked Erivo’s shaved-head appearance and portrayed her as overly masculine while “shielding” Ariana Grande.

The Singapore incident occurred on November 13, 2025 when a fan suddenly jumped a barricade and grabbed Ariana Grande on the yellow carpet. Cynthia Erivo quickly intervened, stepping between Ariana and the intruder, pulling him away and shielding her until security arrived.

She kept an arm around Ariana as they walked further down the carpet, offering comfort and reassurance. Her response was widely praised, but some users have since twisted the incident to mock her appearance and speculate unnecessarily about her relationship with Ariana.

Online rumours have continued, with some describing their closeness as a “demi-god nonbinary relationship”. Meanwhile, both stars have stated clearly that their bond is a close friendship based on trust and mutual respect.