Could Cynthia Erivo be on the brink of achieving the ultimate entertainment accolade—the coveted EGOT? Her journey so far is nothing short of remarkable, but here’s where it gets controversial: does her latest role in Wicked: For Good seal the deal? Let’s break it down by the numbers and explore why this talented powerhouse is a force to be reckoned with.
By Carla Meyer
Dec. 3, 2025 3 AM PT
A lead Oscar nomination for Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of the complex witch Elphaba in Wicked: For Good (https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/awards/story/2025-11-24/wicked-for-good-the-wizard-of-oz-crafts) wouldn’t just be a career milestone—it would edge her closer to joining the elite EGOT club, solidifying her reputation as a versatile and consummate entertainer. But is the Academy ready to reward her bold performance? And this is the part most people miss: Erivo’s ability to seamlessly transition between acting, singing, and songwriting makes her a rare talent in today’s industry.
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This nomination would mark Erivo’s third for acting, following her acclaimed roles in last year’s Wicked and the 2019 Harriet Tubman biopic Harriet. She also earned a nod for co-writing the original song “Stand Up” for Harriet. But here’s the kicker: can she turn this momentum into a win?
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Erivo already boasts a Daytime Emmy, Grammy, and Tony—all tied to the 2015 Broadway revival of The Color Purple. Fun fact: Her occasional duet partner, Ben Platt, achieved the same trifecta with Dear Evan Hansen. Is this a friendly rivalry or a sign of greater things to come?
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Years Erivo has been on the cusp of EGOT status, knocking on the door with each new project. But why hasn’t she crossed the finish line yet? Is it timing, or is there something more at play?
2016-2019
Erivo snagged her Daytime Emmy in 2017 for a short-lived musical performance category after a stunning appearance on the Today show. Yes, Daytime Emmys count—just ask EGOT winners Whoopi Goldberg, Jennifer Hudson, and Alan Menken, who also earned their ‘E’ from daytime programming. But does this category get the respect it deserves?
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A Primetime Emmy win feels inevitable for Erivo, who was nominated this year for her jaw-dropping performance as quintuplets on Poker Face (https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/awards/story/2025-05-15/poker-face-guest-stars-kumail-nanjiani-cynthia-erivo-katie-holmes-rhea-perlman-peacock) and in 2021 for her portrayal of Aretha Franklin in Genius: Aretha. But with such stiff competition, is this her year to finally take home the trophy?
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Tracks on Erivo’s critically acclaimed second solo album, I Forgive You, released in 2025. As a singer-songwriter, she’s proven her musical prowess, but will the Grammys recognize her as more than just a Broadway star?
2025
Erivo also earned praise for two high-risk, high-reward ventures: hosting the Tony Awards and starring in the Hollywood Bowl’s Jesus Christ Superstar. Should the major awards bodies consider a hybrid ‘Entertainer of the Year’ award just for her? Or is that too bold a move?
Controversial Question: Is Cynthia Erivo’s versatility a blessing or a curse in the eyes of award voters? Does her ability to excel in multiple fields dilute her chances, or does it make her an unstoppable force? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a debate!
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