Cynthia Erivo's recent experience at the Singapore premiere of 'Wicked: For Good' has sparked a much-needed conversation about the treatment of Black women in the public eye. The incident, where Erivo bravely stepped in to protect her co-star Ariana Grande from an invader, has revealed the insidious nature of racism and the assumptions that come with it.
Erivo's account of the incident highlights the fear and terror that Black women often face in such situations. She emphasizes the importance of personal space and the fact that a stranger's actions should not be tolerated, regardless of their intentions. The fact that Erivo felt the need to physically intervene to protect Grande from an invader underscores the pervasive nature of this issue.
The social media reaction to the incident was telling. Many people labeled Erivo as Grande's 'bodyguard', a label that Erivo finds problematic. She argues that this reaction stems from a deep-seated belief that Black women are larger than life and should be 'controlled' or 'protected'. This assumption, she believes, is rooted in racism and the objectification of Black women's bodies.
Erivo's reluctance to campaign for the Oscars for 'Wicked: For Good' is a direct result of this incident. She felt that her instinctive actions were being misconstrued and that the way people perceive women of color like her was a barrier to her involvement. This reaction highlights the challenges that Black women face in the entertainment industry and the need for a more inclusive and equitable environment.
The box office success of the original 'Wicked' film, which took $765 million worldwide, stands in stark contrast to the sequel's performance. The sequel, 'Wicked: For Good', has taken $541 million and received no Oscar nominations. Erivo's experience with the red-carpet incident and its aftermath may have contributed to her decision to step back from campaigning for awards, as she felt it was not a fair or deserved process.
In conclusion, Cynthia Erivo's experience at the Singapore premiere of 'Wicked: For Good' has brought to light the pervasive racism and objectification that Black women face. Her bravery in protecting her co-star and her subsequent reflection on the incident have sparked a much-needed conversation about the treatment of Black women in the public eye. It is time for a more inclusive and equitable environment in the entertainment industry, where the humanity and dignity of all women are respected and protected.
