Talk About an All-Time Glow-Up: Cynthia Erivo’s Transformation
Cynthia Erivo has been making waves in the entertainment industry not only for her extraordinary voice and talent but also for her striking transformation over the years. From her powerful performances to a bold new look, Erivo’s journey is a compelling story of self-acceptance and reinvention.
The Makeup and Costume Process in Wicked
Erivo’s recent role as Elphaba in Wicked required an extensive makeup and costume process. She revealed that it takes anywhere from two to four hours to embody the character fully. This meticulous transformation includes wearing wigs, which became easier for the wardrobe department after Erivo decided to shave her head. The green Wicked Witch of the West, adorned with micro braids in the film, showcases not just a classic character but also an innovative approach to style and beauty.
Embracing the Bald Look
What began as a functional choice for the role has turned into a statement look for Erivo. During conversations with W magazine, she expressed pride in her “bald and beautiful” appearance. “I have no eyebrows. I shave them off on purpose,” she explained, preferring a clean aesthetic that emphasizes her facial features. This decision highlights a deeper sentiment: wanting to shift the focus from her hair to her face.
A Shift in Perception
Throughout her career, Erivo has sported various hairstyles, but a pivotal moment came when she decided to embrace her natural beauty. “I remember saying to myself, ‘I’d like to walk into a room and have people just see my face,'” she recounts. This was not without its challenges, as her initial attempts at shaving her head faced pushback from her hairdresser. Ultimately, Erivo persevered, illustrating that her beauty comes from confidence rather than her hairstyle.
Resilience Against Criticism
In a world where public figures often face relentless scrutiny, Erivo has become a beacon of resilience. She acknowledges the mixed reactions to her bald look: “Why does it bother you so much that I don’t want to wander around with blonde tresses?” This candid approach showcases her strength and self-acceptance, proving that she will continue to define her beauty standards on her terms.
Upcoming Performance at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Fans can look forward to seeing Erivo in action at the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 27. She will kick off the event with a special performance, showcasing her talent and style to a massive audience. For those eager to tune in, the parade will be simulcast on NBC and Peacock starting at 8:30 a.m. across all time zones.
The Evolution of Cynthia Erivo
Erivo’s transformation is not just a physical glow-up; it’s a testament to her journey as an artist and a person. By owning her identity and choices, she encourages others to embrace their unique qualities. As we gear up to witness her perform at such an iconic event, it’s clear that Cynthia Erivo is not just a performer; she is a role model redefining beauty standards and authenticity in the entertainment world.