How Much Did Cynthia Erivo Get Paid for Wicked?
Want to know how much Cynthia Erivo got paid for Wicked? After weeks of speculation and online chatter, the truth about her salary has finally been clarified.
Here’s everything you need to know about Cynthia Erivo’s pay for her role in Wicked and whether those viral salary rumours were accurate.
Key Takeaways
- Equal Pay Confirmed: Both Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande received equal pay for their leading roles in Wicked.
- Universal Responds: A Universal spokesperson addressed the claims, calling them “completely false and based on internet fodder.”
- Salary Figures Unconfirmed: The exact dollar figure for their pay has not been officially disclosed.
What Sparked the Wicked Salary Controversy?
When rumours about the pay difference between Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande began circulating, social media erupted. Reports suggested that Ariana Grande was earning $15 million, while Cynthia Erivo was reportedly paid just $1 million.
This sparked debates about pay disparity in Hollywood, with many questioning why the lead character, played by Cynthia, would be paid so much less than her co-star.
Universal Sets the Record Straight
After weeks of speculation, Universal Pictures addressed the pay rumours head-on. A spokesperson stated:
Reports of pay disparity between Cynthia and Ariana are completely false and based on internet fodder. The women received equal pay for their work on Wicked.
This official statement dismissed the viral claims and made it clear that both actresses were paid equally.
Why Did These Pay Rumours Go Viral?
The entertainment industry has a long history of women not receiving equal pay compared to their male counterparts or more famous co-stars.
While Cynthia Erivo is an acclaimed actress and singer with a Tony, Grammy, and Emmy Award, Ariana Grande’s global fanbase and massive social media following likely contributed to the speculation.
How Much Were Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande Paid for Wicked?
Despite the clarification from Universal, the exact dollar figures for Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s salaries remain undisclosed.
In Hollywood, factors like box office appeal, contract negotiations, and previous salaries often determine pay scales. While figures for the two leads are unknown, other cast members’ reported earnings have circulated online.
| Actor | Role | Estimated Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Michelle Yeoh | Madame Morrible | $2 million |
| Jeff Goldblum | The Wizard | $2 million |
| Jonathan Bailey | Prince Fiyero | $450,000 |
| Ethan Slater | Boq | $350,000 |
| Marissa Bode | Nessarose | $250,000 |
These figures remain unconfirmed by the studio, but they offer insight into Hollywood’s typical pay structures for supporting roles.
Why Equal Pay in Wicked Matters
The confirmation that Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande were paid equally is a significant moment for equal pay in Hollywood.
Historically, salary negotiations have favoured actors with bigger social media followings or established blockbuster appeal. The fact that Universal ensured equal pay for its two female leads sets an important precedent for future productions.
Cynthia Erivo’s Impact as Elphaba
Salary discussions aside, Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba has been widely celebrated. Known for her extraordinary voice and powerful stage presence, Cynthia was an inspired choice for the role of the Wicked Witch of the West.
Paired with Ariana Grande’s Glinda, the duo has brought a fresh energy to the iconic roles that fans have adored on stage for years.
What Fans Are Saying
While some fans initially expressed disappointment over the alleged pay gap, many were relieved after Universal clarified the truth.
Comments online now focus on the performances rather than the salaries, with praise pouring in for both Cynthia and Ariana.
Overall
The rumours surrounding how much Cynthia Erivo got paid for Wicked have officially been debunked. Universal Studios confirmed that both Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande received equal pay for their work on the two-part film adaptation.
While the exact dollar figures remain undisclosed, the transparency from the studio sets an encouraging example for fair treatment in Hollywood.
As excitement builds for Part Two: Wicked: For Good, one thing is certain: both stars have earned every penny.
FAQs
Did Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande get paid the same for Wicked?
Yes, Universal confirmed that Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande received equal pay for their roles in the film.
How much was Cynthia Erivo paid for Wicked?
The exact dollar figure for Cynthia Erivo’s salary has not been officially disclosed.
Why did people think Ariana Grande earned more than Cynthia Erivo?
Unverified internet fodder and speculative reports suggested a pay gap, but these claims were later proven completely false.
When was Wicked Part One released?
Part One was released in November 2024.
When will Wicked: For Good (Part Two) be released?
Part Two is scheduled for release in November 2025.
Who directed the Wicked film adaptation?
The film was directed by Jon M. Chu.
Are the supporting cast salaries confirmed?
No, while estimated figures have been reported, no official numbers have been confirmed by Universal.
