Cynthia Erivo loses chance to become youngest EGOT winner
What's the story
The 2025 Academy Awards, which opened with a high-energy performance by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, could have been historic for Erivo. However, her opportunity to become the youngest EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Awards) winner faded in front of her. Already an Emmy, Grammy, and Tony winner, Erivo was in the running for Best Actress for her role in Wicked. But, the Oscar in this category went to Mikey Madison for Anora, dashing her hopes.
EGOT pursuit
Erivo's journey toward EGOT status
Erivo began her journey toward EGOT in 2016, winning a Tony for her role in Broadway's The Color Purple. She won a Grammy the next year for the show's soundtrack album and subsequently won an Emmy for Outstanding Daytime Performance as part of the cast's appearance on The Today Show. Now, she's just one step away from completing this prestigious quartet of awards with an Oscar.
Award significance
EGOT: A symbol of unmatched achievement in entertainment
EGOT is the rare feat of winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony—the highest honors in television, music, film, and theater. If Erivo had clinched the Oscar on Sunday night (US time) at 38, she would have been the 20th person to complete the coveted set of awards. The list has some legendary names, including Whoopi Goldberg, Audrey Hepburn, and Jennifer Hudson.
Career highlight
Erivo's performance in 'Wicked' film series
Despite not being a part of the Broadway production of Wicked, Erivo has received immense praise for her performance as Elphaba in the movie adaptation released last year. She will be reprising the role opposite Grande in the franchise's final installment, Wicked: For Good, which will be released later this year. The first part of the film will premiere on the streaming platform Peacock on March 21.