Cynthia Erivo is stepping into the spotlight once again, this time as the host of the 78th Tony Awards. The acclaimed performer, fresh from her starring role in the box office smash “Wicked,” is taking over emcee duties from Ariana DeBose, who hosted the last three ceremonies. With a Tony already under her belt and an Oscar nomination to her name, Erivo’s presence adds prestige and excitement to Broadway’s most anticipated evening.
A Tony-Winning Talent Takes Center Stage
Hosting the Tony Awards is no small task, but Erivo is no stranger to the Broadway stage.
She first won over theatergoers with her powerhouse performance in the 2016 revival of “The Color Purple,” earning her a Tony for Best Actress in a Musical. That role catapulted her to mainstream recognition, paving the way for her success across film, television, and music.
Beyond her Broadway triumphs, Erivo has become a major force in Hollywood. She earned Academy Award nominations for her portrayal of Harriet Tubman in “Harriet” and for co-writing the film’s song “Stand Up.” She also holds both an Emmy and a Grammy, making her just one Tony win away from EGOT status.
A Star-Packed Night Returns to Radio City Music Hall
The 2024 Tony Awards will return to its grandest stage: Radio City Music Hall.
After two years at smaller venues, including the United Palace in 2023 and Lincoln Center in 2024, organizers opted to bring the ceremony back to a venue with a larger seating capacity. The move comes after complaints from theater insiders about the limited space at the previous locations.
This year’s show is set to air live on June 8 on CBS and will be available for streaming on Paramount+. Broadway’s biggest night promises a celebration of the year’s best performances, productions, and creative achievements.
Erivo’s Stacked Schedule Adds to the Buzz
The timing of Erivo’s hosting gig couldn’t be more fitting.
She is riding high on the success of “Wicked,” in which she stars as Elphaba, a role she will reprise in this year’s sequel, “Wicked: For Good.” The film adaptation of the beloved musical has been a box office hit, cementing her as one of Hollywood’s most in-demand talents.
Beyond “Wicked,” Erivo continues to make waves in television and film. She recently wrapped production on a guest role in “Poker Face” and has previously starred in major projects like HBO’s “The Outsider” and National Geographic’s “Genius: Aretha,” where she portrayed the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin.
What Erivo Says About the Honor
Taking on the role of host for the Tonys is a full-circle moment for Erivo.
“I am so proud and excited to take on this glorious honor,” she said in a statement. “I am looking forward to ushering the theater community at large through a night that celebrates the wonderful performances we have witnessed throughout the year. I hope I can rise to the occasion.”
With her unmatched talent, deep connection to the Broadway world, and rising Hollywood profile, Erivo’s presence at the Tonys is expected to add a fresh energy to the event.
