Have you seen Wicked yet. There are big spoilers we could reveal. We wont. But the Land of Oz has long been a refuge for LGBTQ people, and out bisexual Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba in Wicked strengthens that connection. Erivo brings new depth to the green-skinned witch who is othered for being different. Director Jon M. Chu’s big-screen adaptation highlights Elphaba’s journey of defiance and empowerment. As she challenges those in power, exposing dangerous truths, she sings “Defying Gravity” while soaring into her full strength—a moment that is resonating deeply with queer audiences. When asked what it means to her that the LGBTQ community is finding solace in “Defying Gravity,” Erivo said, “I didn’t know that was happening. That's really powerful.
