Cyntia Erivo Speaks Out Against Fan-Doctored Art for “Wicked” Movie

Cyntia Erivo, the star of the upcoming movie musical “Wicked,” is speaking out against fan-doctored art that has surfaced online. The actress expressed her dismay after images of a fan-edited version of the official movie poster, which obscured her face, circulated on social media. In a post on her Instagram Stories, Erivo called the edits “wild” and “offensive,” stating that they degrade her as a real-life human being.

The actress emphasized that the original poster is an illustration and that editing her face erases her identity. Despite the edited version resembling the original Playbill cover, Erivo clarified that the movie poster is a homage, not an imitation. She highlighted the importance of communication through eye contact and expressed how painful it was to have her face hidden in the edited version.

Reactions to Erivo’s response have been mixed, with some supporting her stance against the disrespectful edits. The actress’s defense is not unwarranted, considering the backlash often faced by Black female leads in high-profile adaptations. Erivo’s co-star, Ariana Grande, also features in the movie adaptation of the Broadway musical “Wicked,” set to hit theaters on November 22.

Erivo’s powerful message serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting artists and their work, especially in the age of fan-created content. As the release of “Wicked” approaches, the actress’s words resonate with fans and creators alike, urging for a more thoughtful and considerate approach to fan art and representation in the entertainment industry.