Wicked, based on the hit musical of the same name, brought new levels of attention, thanks to Erivo’s critically-acclaimed performance as the so-called future Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba, alongside Ariana Grande as Glinda the Good.
The pair went viral for their hand-holding, emotional interviews and matching tattoos, not to mention Erivo’s amazing nail art.
The recently released sequel, Wicked: For Good, has also been creating headlines, with Erivo rushing to her co-star’s aid on the yellow carpet at an event in Singapore, after a fan jumped over the barrier and put his arm around Grande.
Erivo has won rave reviews for her reprised role, so if she nabs a best Oscar win come March, and the coveted EGOT, it will be the cherry on the icing on the cake.
Erivo explained her connection with Elphaba, saying: “I understand what it feels like to be set apart from everybody else, and not fit in.
“Yes, I understand what it feels like to be a kid whose father doesn’t care; yes, I understand what it’s like to feel alone when you’re in a room full of people who don’t know where you’re coming from or why you’re so tired, or why you do things your way.
She told the Guardian: “Me and Elphaba had that same journey, trying to fit, and it doesn’t work. Your only choice is to be who you are.”