Cynthia Erivo

Early Life

Cynthia Chinasaokwu Onyedinmanasu Owezuke Amarachukwu Echimino Erivo was born on January 8, 1987, in Stockwell, London, to Igbo Nigerian immigrant parents. Her mother, Edith, fled Nigeria during the Civil War, and after her parents separated when she was young, Cynthia and her sister were raised by their mother, who worked as a nurse. Erivo attended La Retraite Roman Catholic Girls' School and later pursued a music psychology degree at the University of East London before transferring to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), where she graduated with a bachelor's degree in acting in 2010.

Career

Erivo's career began with roles in British television, but she gained significant recognition for her stage performances. In 2013, she starred as Celie Harris in the Menier Chocolate Factory's production of "The Color Purple," a role that earned her a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 2016. She has also appeared in various musicals and films, contributing to soundtracks and co-writing songs, including "Fly Before You Fall" for the film "Beyond the Lights." Her discography includes singles like "Stand Up" from the film "Harriet" and albums such as "Ch. 1 Vs. 1" and "I Forgive You."

Personal Life

Cynthia Erivo identifies as queer and bisexual, and she has been open about her personal life, including her past relationship with actor Dean John-Wilson and her current relationship with actress and producer Lena Waithe. An avid runner, she completed the London Marathon in 2022 and 2026, and the New York City Marathon in 2016. Erivo's contributions to music and drama have been recognized with numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards and an appointment as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2026 New Year Honours.