Could Cynthia Erivo be on the brink of achieving EGOT status with her latest role in Wicked: For Good? Here’s the bold truth: her portrayal of the complex witch Elphaba could not only secure her a lead Oscar nomination but also cement her legacy as one of the most versatile entertainers of our time. But here’s where it gets controversial—while her talent is undeniable, does her rapid ascent to EGOT territory overshadow other deserving artists who’ve spent decades in the industry? Let’s break it down.
A lead Oscar nod for Wicked: For Good would mark Erivo’s third acting nomination, following her acclaimed performances in last year’s Wicked and the 2019 Harriet Tubman biopic Harriet. And this is the part most people miss: she’s also been recognized for her songwriting, earning a nomination for co-writing Stand Up in Harriet. With such a diverse skill set, Erivo isn’t just an actress—she’s a creative force.
Already, Erivo holds a Daytime Emmy, a Grammy, and a 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. But here’s the kicker: Erivo’s been on the cusp of EGOT status for eight years, and her 2017 Daytime Emmy win for performing on the Today show proves that even daytime programming can pave the way to greatness. Yes, Daytime Emmys count—just ask EGOT winners like Whoopi Goldberg and Jennifer Hudson.
A Primetime Emmy seems almost inevitable for Erivo. She’s already been nominated twice: this year for her jaw-dropping performance as quintuplets on Poker Face and in 2021 for her portrayal of Aretha Franklin in Genius: Aretha. But here’s the question: Is her dominance across categories a testament to her talent, or does it highlight the industry’s tendency to reward a select few?
Beyond awards, Erivo’s 2025 has been a masterclass in versatility. Her second solo album, I Forgive You, dropped to critical acclaim with 20 tracks showcasing her songwriting prowess. She also took on high-risk ventures like hosting the Tony Awards and starring in the Hollywood Bowl’s Jesus Christ Superstar. Should the awards bodies just create a hybrid ‘Entertainer of the Year’ award for her?
As Erivo continues to push boundaries, one thing’s clear: her journey to EGOT isn’t just about collecting trophies—it’s about redefining what it means to be an entertainer. But what do you think? Is her rapid rise deserved, or does it overshadow others? Let’s debate in the comments!
