Cynthia Erivo is no stranger to hard work and dedication. At a recent screening of Wicked in Los Angeles, the talented actress shared insights about the personal sacrifices she made to portray Elphaba in the highly anticipated film.
During a Q&A session, Erivo opened up about how she often prioritizes her physical and mental challenges over rest. At 37 years old, she admitted that while filming Wicked, her sleep schedule was not ideal, with some nights amounting to less than three hours of sleep.
"I consciously seek out experiences that challenge me both physically and mentally," Erivo explained. She emphasized the connection between the mind and body, suggesting that both need to be active and engaged for optimal performance.
Her vigorous routine involved early morning workouts, followed by an extensive makeup session to prepare for her early call time. Erivo knew she needed to be in top shape for the film’s demanding flying stunts. "I’ve never flown like this before; I had to be strong to handle those wires," she noted.
She expressed gratitude for her stunt coordinator, Jo McLaren, who supported her through the preparation. "She asked if I was sure I wanted to do all of this, and I was ready to embrace the challenge," Erivo said.
To maintain her rigorous routine, Erivo adopted several personal habits. She integrates wellness into her life, utilizing tools like an infrared sauna blanket for recovery and regularly seeing a therapist for support. Living a disciplined lifestyle, she avoids alcohol, smoking, and meat, opting instead for a more straightforward way of life focused on her health.
Despite the pressures of her demanding role, Erivo finds value in rest. She tries to optimize the little sleep she gets, emphasizing the importance of quality over quantity. After a long day on set, she takes time to unwind during her makeup removal routine, despite finding it challenging to relax after an intense shooting day.
Wicked: Part One is now playing in theaters, with Part Two expected to be released on November 26, 2025.
