The Black American contingent still would like a word with the controversial actress
Cynthia Erivo is a talented British-Nigerian performer who has risen to the top of the entertainment industry as an unstoppable force of nature for her inimitable talents. However, despite her undeniable prowess and rising success, she still remains at the center of controversy, particularly among Black American audiences. Rarely is it about her singing or acting as they are indeed top-caliber, but her contentious comments in the past regarding Black American culture and the prominent Black American leaders she has chosen to portray.
A Career Ascension on the Backs of Iconic Black American Figures
Erivo’s career trajectory has been remarkable and has steadily climbed in only a few years. Her portrayal of Celie in the Broadway revival of The Color Purple catapulted her name within industry circles, earning her both a Tony and a Grammy Award. Next, she went on to star as Harriet Tubman in the biopic Harriet, a performance that earned her nominations for both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe. Recently, her role as Elphaba in the film adaptation of Wicked has kept her firmly in the spotlight and garnered the Brit even more acting nominations, with many predicting an Oscar nod this year.
Erivo as a performer is nothing less than spectacular, a chameleon able to convincingly embody any role that she tackles, no matter how big or small. Whether on the small screen or the silver screen, she imbues each character with an energy that always stands out with a conviction that few actors today can match.
What also stands out, however, is the glaring irony of her career choices. Erivo has portrayed some of the most iconic figures in Black American history and culture, yet her remarks about Black Americans have left many feeling insulted and betrayed.
Controversial Comments on Black American Culture
Erivo’s past comments—including remarks that Black Americans lack culture—have ignited widespread backlash. Though a few years old, these statements continue to leave a bad taste in the mouths of Black Americans, particularly since she has made a name for herself worldwide playing primarily characters that are ADOS or Black American icons. For many, her comments perpetuate the very stereotypes and dismissals of Black American identity that actors like her should aim to dismantle.
“Black Americans don’t have culture,” Erivo was quoted as saying in a resurfaced interview. This statement has been interpreted by critics as dismissive of the rich and varied cultural tapestry that Black Americans have cultivated in the face of systemic oppression—from jazz and hip-hop to literature, fashion, and activism. In case Erivo has been living under a rock the past thirty years, the fact is this remains – Black AMERICAN culture is the most imitated and copied culture currently across the globe. For Erivo to be dismissive gives off a jealous vibe that many are not willing to overlook.
Excuse us, Miss Erivo, but?
Harriet Tubman and Aretha Franklin are two of the most legendary people in American history – black OR white. The dismissal is simply beyond.
The Cultural Divide
Idris Elba, John Boyega, Daniel Kaluuya, Letitia Wright David Oyelowo, Naomie Harris, Damson Idris, Lashana Lynch…
All of the above work primarily in America as Black Brits and have made significant strides (as well as money) playing Black Americans both fictional and real. Not a single one other than Erivo has attempted to decimate the contributions of Black Americans to the rich tapestry of the United States and the world. They also know – whether Miss Erivo cares to admit it or not – that there are far more opportunities for people of color in the United States than the United Kingdom. It needs to be said and dissected but the fact remains: the UK still maintains an extremely racist and oppressive system that doesn’t just equal America’s – it surpasses it.
The UK system of classism and racism still runs deep. Although the world likes to center racism as something solely in America, this could not be further from the truth. People of color in the United Kingdom are relegated to less than and conditioned to accept it. Meghan Markle is but one example of how the UK system seeks to stifle and decimate people of color if they attempt to challenge the status quo. What Erivo obviously fails to grasp is how Black Americans probably have more skin in the game because they were enslaved and understand better than anyone that silence IS violence. They had literally less than nothing and yet persevered to prominence and still barely represent ten percent of the overall population. So for Miss Erivo to cross the pond and drag Black Americans?
Unacceptable!
Critics have pointed out Cynthia Erivo has benefited from opportunities that many believe should have gone to Black American actors, particularly when portraying figures like Harriet Tubman, a quintessentially American icon. For some, this raises uncomfortable questions: If Erivo holds Black American culture in such low regard, why is she actively pursuing roles that require her to embody it?
This critique isn’t about her talent—few would argue that Erivo isn’t a powerhouse performer. Instead, it’s about the broader implications of her comments and career choices. The entertainment industry has long been criticized for favoring non-American Black actors for roles that deeply resonate within Black American history and experience. Oftentimes, it is incendiary for Black Americans to see roles handed over to Black people that do not understand the complexities of the Black American experience. Erivo’s case exemplifies the complexities and tensions of this phenomenon.
Sparking a Necessary Debate
To be clear, Erivo’s success as a Black actress is significant in an industry that often sidelines women of color. Her nominations and wins showcase the strides being made in diversifying Hollywood. Yet, her controversial remarks highlight an ongoing issue: the failure to acknowledge and respect the cultural distinctions within the African diaspora.
Awards season is upon us and ‘Wicked’ and Cynthia Erivo’s name is at the top of many lists, which makes this conversation one that may pop up as she promotes the film and campaigns for nominations. While celebrating her achievements, we must also hold her accountable for her words and the message they send about Black American identity. Is it fair for someone who has publicly dismissed Black American culture to reap the benefits of portraying its most revered icons? Or does her talent outweigh her missteps, making her a beacon of representation despite her remarks?
The debate rages on…
Cynthia Erivo’s story is a complicated one, intertwining immense talent with divisive controversy. It’s a story that forces us to confront the nuances of identity, representation, and respect. As her star continues to rise, so too should the scrutiny of her actions and the broader implications they carry for the Black diaspora. Until she addresses it fully in a viable forum, instead of going the stereotypical British route and attempting to bury such a very important topic, she will never get the respect she probably deserves as a bonafide talent stateside. The ADOS are known for keeping receipts and until Erivo comes correct?
Her career will forever have an asterisk attached to it. If she can live with that, then more power to her, but as she already should know: there is no drag more powerful on this earth than a drag from the ADOS contingent.
Tread with care, Erivo!
Tread with care!