Cynthia Erivo says 'Wicked' Singapore incident made her feel her 'humanity had been bastardised'

Erivo said the experience contributed to her decision to step back from major awards campaign for 'Wicked: For Good'

Cynthia Erivo has opened up about the emotional toll of the viral incident at the Wicked: For Good premiere in Singapore, saying the online reaction left her feeling as though her “humanity had been bastardised”.

In a recent interview with Variety, the Oscar-nominated actress reflected on the moment she instinctively stepped in to protect co-star Ariana Grande after a man reportedly jumped a barrier and grabbed Grande during the film’s red carpet event in late 2025.

Erivo explained that while her response came naturally out of concern for her friend, the aftermath online quickly became painful. Social media users mocked her appearance and questioned her actions, something she said deeply affected her. “I just felt like my humanity had been bastardised,” she said, adding that an instinctive act of protection had been twisted into something else entirely.

The actress also suggested the backlash reflected broader stereotypes directed at Black women, particularly around perceptions of strength and aggression. According to Erivo, assumptions were made about her intentions simply because of the way she looks.

The experience ultimately contributed to her decision to step back from major awards campaign for Wicked: For Good. Erivo admitted she no longer wanted to subject herself to the pressures and scrutiny that often come with awards season, despite receiving widespread acclaim for her performance as Elphaba.

During the same interview, Erivo defended her close friendship with Grande after some online commentators questioned whether their bond was genuine. The actress said the pair still text almost daily after spending four years filming and promoting the two-part musical adaptation together.

Despite the difficult experience, Erivo said Wicked ultimately changed her life and strengthened her relationship with Grande, who she described as someone she continues to lean on for support.