Why Wicked’s Original Elphaba Idina Menzel Says Cynthia Erivo Didn’t Need Her Advice

The 53-year-old also noted that there was one thing she did pass on to Cynthia amid entering into the wonderful world of Wicked. 

“I told her just to enjoy the moment, really,” she added. “That’s the most important thing because sometimes it just passes us by.”

Idina starred as Elphaba alongside Kristin Chenoweth’s Glinda (Ariana Grande in the movie) for a 16-month run on Broadway in the early aughts, creating the musical into the cultural sensation that it has become today. But at the time, Idina admitted, it was only about the two witches on stage—and the actresses behind them. 

“We didn’t know it would become the phenomenon that it did,” Idina reflected of the iconic Broadway show’s impact. “But Kristin and I just really zoned in on each other and supported each other telepathically. You just remember what you’re there for. That you’ve dreamt of this your whole life—to be on Broadway—and that you have this incredible music and incredible story that’s so important to get out there, and you kind of get out of your own way.”

Of course, Idina also added that there was a glimmer of the show’s incredible impact on her very first opening night, adding, “We felt it was going to be something special.”

And the Enchanted actress—who noted that she and Kristin have become friends with Ariana and Cynthia—emphasized that the new Elphaba and Glinda, as well as director Jon M. Chu and everyone behind the upcoming film, has done the story justice. 

“The moving is so loving and respectful of our original production,” Idina raved. “Kristin and I are just so excited and proud to be a part of this beautiful legacy.”

Keep reading for everyone who has been a part of Wicked’s red carpet legacy at the film’s premiere. 

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