'Wicked' star Cynthia Erivo to host 2025 Tony Awards

Erivo is nominated for an Oscar for her performance as Elphaba in the movie musical Wicked, in which she starred alongside Ariana Grande and Jonathan Bailey.

Wicked star Cynthia Erivo will host the 78th Annual Tony Awards this June, taking over the role from Ariana DeBose, who has hosted the past three shows.

The former Tony winner, who secured the best actress in a musical award in 2016 for The Color Purple, is nominated for an Oscar for her performance as Elphaba in the movie musical Wicked, in which she starred alongside Ariana Grande and Jonathan Bailey.

This year’s Tony Awards ceremony will return to Radio City Music Hall in New York City, broadcasting live on June 8. It was held at the United Palace in 2023 and at Lincoln Center in 2024. Nominations for this year’s awards will be announced on May 1.

Erivo said: “I am so proud and excited to take on this glorious honor. I am looking forward to ushering the theatre community at large through a night that celebrates the wonderful performances we have witnessed throughout the year. I hope I can rise to the occasion.”

Check out our guide for more information about the Tony Awards.

Photo credit: Cynthia Erivo. (Image courtesy of team)