Full Breakdown
Cynthia Erivo Makes Golden Globes History with Second Nomination for "Wicked: For Good"
12/9/2025, 8:45:17 PM
Historic Achievements in the Golden Globes
Cynthia Erivo has made history by becoming the first Black woman nominated twice for Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy at the Golden Globes. This recognition comes for her role as Elphaba in "Wicked: For Good," following her previous nomination for the same role in the first installment of the film series. The nominations were announced on December 8, 2025, and the awards ceremony is scheduled for January 11, 2026.
Erivo's nomination is particularly significant in a category that has historically seen limited representation for Black women. Prior to her second nomination, only 12 Black women had been nominated in this category since the Golden Globes began, with Angela Bassett being the only winner in 1994. Erivo's achievement highlights a gradual but necessary shift in the recognition of Black actresses in lead comedic roles.
The "Wicked: For Good" Impact
"Wicked: For Good," directed by Jon M. Chu, has garnered a total of five nominations at the upcoming Golden Globes, including Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role for Erivo's co-star, Ariana Grande, who plays Glinda. This makes them the first two actors from the same film to be consecutively nominated for their respective roles. The film also received nominations for Best Original Song for Stephen Schwartz's compositions "No Place Like Home" and "The Girl in the Bubble," as well as a nod for Cinematic and Box Office Achievement.
Despite the accolades, "Wicked: For Good" faced criticism for not securing a nomination for Best Picture – Musical or Comedy, a category it was expected to compete in. The film's reception has been mixed, with some fans expressing disappointment over its perceived snubs, particularly given the success of the first film.
Official Statements & Responses
Cynthia Erivo expressed her gratitude upon receiving the nomination, stating, “It’s a beautiful, beautiful surprise... I don’t think I’ve experienced anything like it.” She emphasized the importance of her nomination, saying, “Let’s make sure that more Black women are nominated in this category. Being the first is always wonderful, but let’s make sure I’m not the last.”
Ariana Grande also shared her excitement, noting, “It is definitely just as exciting [as last year’s nomination] and kind of blindsiding... I’m just deeply honored.” Both actresses have acknowledged the significance of their roles and the impact of their performances on audiences.
Criticism & Opposition
While the nominations for Erivo and Grande have been celebrated, the absence of a Best Picture nomination for "Wicked: For Good" has sparked backlash among fans. Critics have labeled this omission as one of the biggest snubs of the nomination announcement, especially given the film's box office success and the strong performances by its leads. Fans took to social media to express their disbelief, questioning how a film with multiple acting nominations could be overlooked in the Best Picture category.
What's Next
The 83rd Golden Globe Awards will take place on January 11, 2026, at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. As the awards season progresses, both Erivo and Grande are expected to continue receiving recognition for their performances, with the potential for further nominations at other prestigious awards, including the Academy Awards.
