Cynthia Erivo Reflects on the Emotional Conclusion of *Wicked: For Good*

Cynthia Erivo, who portrays Elphaba in the *Wicked* film series, recently shared her insights on the emotional ending of *Wicked: For Good* during an event at the Elphaba’s Wicked Retreat Airbnb Originals Experience on December 3, 2025. The film concludes with Elphaba staging her own death by hiding under a trap door, followed by a poignant scene where she and her lover, Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey), walk into the sunset, leaving Oz behind. In a significant moment, Elphaba passes her Grimmerie spell book to Glinda (Ariana Grande), leading to a reconciliation between the two characters as they sing a reprise of “For Good.”

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Erivo emphasized the depth of the line, "Just look at me / Not with your eyes, with theirs," explaining that it serves as both a comfort and a reminder for Glinda to see beyond her own perceptions. She noted, "It's both trying to help Glinda see what's actually happening, but it's also a comfort," highlighting the complexity of their relationship.

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Reflecting on the film's final scene, which features a flashback to Elphaba and Glinda's college days, Erivo expressed surprise at the choice of this moment to close the film. Director Jon M. Chu explained that he initially did not know where the scene would fit but felt it was a natural conclusion to their story. Erivo also shared a key lesson from her portrayal of Elphaba: "That things aren't always as they seem, that what you see isn't always what you get."

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Lindsay Mendez, a Tony Award-winning actress who previously played Elphaba on Broadway, praised Erivo's performance in *Wicked: For Good*. Mendez described Erivo as a "goddess" and expressed her admiration for the film, stating, "It hit all my Wicked notes." Mendez's comments reflect a broader appreciation for the film's ability to resonate with audiences and the ongoing popularity of musical adaptations.

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In addition to her reflections on the film's emotional weight, Erivo addressed the viral attention surrounding Elphaba's costume choice during a sensual moment in the song “As Long As You’re Mine.” Dubbed Elphaba's "sex cardigan," the oversized sweater sparked discussions online. Erivo explained that the cardigan was intended to reveal a softer side of Elphaba, contrasting with her usual armor-like attire. She stated, "I just wanted something that removed the armor for a second and yes, shows you a more sensual, more connected side of her."

As Elphaba’s ‘Sex Cardigan’ From Wicked: For Good Goes Viral, I Appreciate Cynthia Erivo’s Thoughtful Take On Its Purpose

*Cynthia Erivo's portrayal of Elphaba in *Wicked: For Good* has not only garnered praise from former cast members but also sparked meaningful conversations about character development and emotional depth. As the film continues to resonate with audiences, Erivo's insights into her character's journey and the significance of her choices provide a deeper understanding of the beloved story.

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