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Former Elphaba shows love for Cynthia Erivo’s performance in ‘Wicked’

Lindsay Mendez, a former Elphaba, admire Erivo’s character in ‘Wicked: For Good’

By Ibtisam Fatima December 08, 2025
Former Elphaba shows love for Cynthia Erivo’s performance in ‘Wicked’

Former Elphaba shows love for Cynthia Erivo’s performance in ‘Wicked’

Lindsay Mendez couldn’t contain her excitement over Cynthia Erivo’s latest turn as Elphaba in Wicked: For Good. 

The former Broadway star, who played the iconic role herself, attended a New York City screening of Merrily We Roll Along and shared her admiration for Erivo’s performance.

“She completely owns it,” Mendez said. “Every moment felt electric, and she brought such heart and power to the role. It’s a joy to watch.” 

She also praised co-star Ariana Grande, calling the cast “absolutely phenomenal.”

Wicked: For Good brings the beloved story to the big screen, giving fans a chance to experience the musical magic in cinemas. 

Inspired by Gregory Maguire’s novel and L. Frank Baum’s original Wizard of Oz, the story continues to resonate with audiences decades after its Broadway debut.

Mendez, who portrayed Elphaba from 2013 to 2014, reflected on the legacy of the role and how seeing a new generation embrace it on screen feels “incredible and full circle.”

The actress’s glowing comments highlight just how much anticipation and excitement surrounds Erivo’s cinematic take on the Wicked Witch of the West, proving that some characters truly transcend the stage.

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