Did Cynthia Erivo Star In The Greatest Showman? Facts!

Did you know that a voice that has captivated audiences on Broadway and earned nominations for an Academy Award for her portrayal of a historical icon was once slated to be part of a cinematic phenomenon? Cynthia Erivo, a name synonymous with power, grace, and unparalleled vocal talent, was intimately involved in the genesis of "The Greatest Showman," a musical spectacle that stole the hearts of millions, and yet, she wasn't in the final cast.

The journey of "The Greatest Showman" from its initial development to its eventual blockbuster status is a fascinating tale of collaboration, ambition, and, ultimately, the decisions that shape the final product. Erivo's involvement, though not ultimately culminating in a screen appearance, was significant. She was part of the developmental workshops that helped get the film greenlit, lending her extraordinary talents to the early stages of the project.

Category Details
Full Name Cynthia Erivo
Date of Birth January 8, 1987
Place of Birth Stockwell, London, England
Nationality British
Occupation Actress, Singer, Songwriter
Known For
  • Tony Award-winning performance in "The Color Purple" (Broadway)
  • Academy Award-nominated performance in "Harriet" (2019)
  • Academy Award-nominated performance in "Wicked" (2024)
Notable Awards & Nominations
  • Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical ("The Color Purple")
  • Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album ("The Color Purple")
  • Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Musical Performance in a Daytime Program
  • Academy Award Nomination for Best Actress ("Harriet")
  • Academy Award Nomination for Best Original Song ("Stand Up" from "Harriet")
Key Contributions
  • Development Workshops for "The Greatest Showman"
  • "Rewrite the Stars" Duet from "The Greatest Showman" (2016)
Official Website www.cynthiaerivo.com

In March 2016, an exclusive salon for the Dramatists Guild Foundation saw Erivo, a Tony and Grammy winner, alongside Oscar and Tony winner Justin Paul, further solidifying her connection to the world of musical theater and film. Her performance in the 2016 duet, singing "Rewrite the Stars" from "The Greatest Showman," offered a tantalizing glimpse of what could have been, captivating audiences with its emotion and vocal prowess. The video, still available, serves as a powerful reminder of her impact.

The question of why Erivo didn't make it into the final cast remains somewhat shrouded in mystery, though the impact of her work in the development phase should not be understated. The final cast would later include Keala Settle, who portrayed the "bearded lady." Other talents, such as Tameka Lawrence, also sang the score during the workshop phase. This journey of the project shows the path from initial ideas to the big screen.

When "The Greatest Showman" did hit the big screen, it quickly became a musical sensation. The films success, however, did not include Erivo in the main cast; the show was a cinematic masterpiece that became very popular due to how it showcased its stellar cast.

Beyond "The Greatest Showman," Erivo has consistently showcased her exceptional talents. Her nominations for an Academy Award for her portrayal of Harriet Tubman in "Harriet" (2019) and as Elphaba in "Wicked" (2024), as well as a nomination for Best Original Song for "Stand Up" from the former, underscores her versatility and commitment to her craft. Her portrayal of historical figures, such as Harriet Tubman, has demonstrated her ability to bring grace and power to the stories of impactful people. Her upcoming role in Wicked promises to be another landmark in her already celebrated career.

Her powerful voice and commanding stage presence have made her one of the most celebrated performers in contemporary theater and film. With a career that includes accolades from Broadway stages to the silver screen, Erivo has carved a unique niche in the entertainment industry.

The impact of "The Greatest Showman" extends beyond its box office success; the film's soundtrack became a phenomenon in its own right. The emotional depth of the film was further enhanced by the contributions of artists. The musical's core message of celebrating the art of performance and storytelling resonated with audiences worldwide.

The development of "The Greatest Showman" involved a collaborative effort. The performance of Keala Settle was also iconic. Early readings presented to executives prior to filming, as well as the workshop process, paved the way for the project. This process, and the inclusion of various musical talents, reflects the dynamic nature of the films production.

The world of "The Greatest Showman" also provides context for understanding other projects. "Wicked," another film, features veteran musical star Keala Settle in its cast, yet some argue that the film fails to fully utilize her talents compared to "The Greatest Showman." These kinds of discussions reflect the high expectations that audiences place on musical adaptations.

A throwback picture posted by Hugh Jackman included Cynthia Erivo, along with other members. That image served as a visual reminder of the project's early development, highlighting the network of people involved in shaping the film.

The collaboration and the evolution of the "The Greatest Showman" project continue to interest its fans. Although Cynthia Erivo's journey with the show took a different direction, her early work made an impact on the film's trajectory and laid the foundation for its ultimate success. Her dedication has ensured her place among the greatest performers of this generation.

The story of Cynthia Erivo and "The Greatest Showman" is a powerful reminder of the dynamic nature of art and performance. It highlights the dedication, talent, and the sometimes-unseen forces that shape the entertainment we enjoy. The legacy of "The Greatest Showman" continues to resonate today, and Cynthia Erivo's contributions, though perhaps not fully realized on screen, have undeniably enriched its journey.

Her role on the Broadway show, her work in the development workshops, and even the 2016 duet serve as testaments to her talent, making her one of the most captivating performers in the business.

Cynthia Erivo & Justin Paul "Rewrite the Stars" The Greatest Showman demo for DGF YouTube

Cynthia Erivo & Justin Paul "Rewrite the Stars" The Greatest Showman demo for DGF YouTube

Acceptance Speech Cynthia Erivo Best Leading Actress in a Musical (2016) YouTube

Acceptance Speech Cynthia Erivo Best Leading Actress in a Musical (2016) YouTube

Remarkable Theater The Greatest Showman

Remarkable Theater The Greatest Showman

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