Cynthia Erivo breaks silence over ‘Wicked’ director John M. Chu’s Oscar snub

Cynthia Erivo has expressed her disappointment over Wicked director John M. Chu being overlooked by the Academy Awards, despite the musical blockbuster receiving 10 nominations for the 2025 Oscars. Among the accolades, Erivo is up for best actress, and her co-star Ariana Grande is nominated for best supporting actress.

In an interview with Variety, Erivo highlighted the immense effort and creativity Chu brought to the project, emphasizing his role as the driving force behind the film’s success. “I don’t know. I wish people understood just how much work has to go into creating a big, giant behemoth like Wicked,” Erivo shared.

“None of that can happen without his vision. It just isn’t possible,” she continued. “He is the one who can see who is right for this, who cast us in these roles, who asked for nine million tulips, who says he wants to build a real set so it feels embedded in reality. It’s him! He says he wants the camera right in Elphaba’s face when she walks down the steps in the Ozdust Ballroom.”

Erivo went on to describe the level of expertise required to helm such a monumental production. “There is a kind of vision that you have to have in order to be in control of something that could run away from you very quickly if you don’t know what to do,” she said.

While Wicked has earned widespread recognition, Erivo remains hopeful for Chu’s future Oscar prospects. She pointed out that the director shot Wicked: For Good—the second installment of the two-part adaptation—alongside the first film, adding, “We have another film coming, and he made two films at the same time.”

Praising Chu’s leadership, Erivo noted, “I think he is an exquisite director. The people that he put in charge of every department! That also takes skill.” Despite being snubbed in the directing category, Chu remains positive about Wicked’s overall success at the Oscars. Erivo revealed, “John is so grateful for every nomination there is, and for best picture. That makes him happy. It’s the big picture. If he is happy, then I am happy. I want that for him.”

As Wicked continues to dominate awards season, Erivo’s praise for Chu underscores the collaborative effort behind the film’s achievements, even as the director’s contributions remain unrecognized by the Academy. Fans and industry insiders alike are eager to see how the second part of the adaptation will fare—and whether Chu will receive the recognition many believe he deserves.