Cynthia Erivo shared insights into the filming and emotional depth of 'Wicked: For Good' during a Variety Awards Circuit Podcast interview. She addressed fan debates about the film's conclusion and revealed a personal moment with co-star Ariana Grande. Erivo emphasized the challenges of portraying Elphaba and her connection to the character.
Cynthia Erivo recently opened up about her role as Elphaba in 'Wicked: For Good,' the second installment of Jon M. Chu's adaptation of the Broadway musical, in an interview on Variety's Awards Circuit Podcast. Conducted shortly after the American Film Institute announced its top 10 films of the year, Erivo described the project as "one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to shoot," highlighting the relief of finally discussing it openly after years of preparation.
A pivotal scene, "No Good Deed," captured Elphaba's vulnerability and surrender amid profound grief. Erivo performed it suspended in wires, with her feet in the air and head angled toward the Grimmerie, over multiple days. She explained the physical strain: "I’m on the wires when I fly in, and I stay in the air for that first section... loads of opposing forces happening whilst trying to work through the frustration, the pain." An alternative take involved her pulling against wires on the ground with wind machines blowing, creating a sense of isolation in an empty blue-screen set.
Addressing the film's debated ending, Erivo firmly stated that Glinda, played by Ariana Grande, does not know Elphaba survives. "I don’t think she knows at all. In fact, I would put my money on it that Glinda does not know that Elphaba is alive," she said. She viewed the Grimmerie opening for Glinda as a symbol of worthiness and inheritance, not revelation, noting Elphaba's deep bond with the book: "I love that moment... she just sort of takes a moment with the book before she gives it to Glinda, which for me always felt like a silent goodbye."
The final picnic scene was filmed in Richmond Park over a full day, capturing the characters' friendship without a predetermined purpose. Erivo kept one detail secret: what Grande whispered to her during the take. "I do, but I’m never telling anyone. It is movie related... but it’s also us related as well."
Erivo drew personal parallels to Elphaba, reflecting on public perceptions: "I’ve had my ‘No Good Deed’ moments... you cannot please everyone." She expressed gratitude for the role's impact, citing fan stories like a young cancer survivor finding comfort in her portrayal. Looking ahead, Erivo mentioned projects including an 'Othello' adaptation and a West End 'Dracula' production.