Cynthia Erivo Partner, the powerhouse talent behind Elphaba in the film adaptation of Wicked, has captivated audiences with her dynamic performances and soulful voice. Off-screen, she shares a meaningful relationship with Lena Waithe, an acclaimed writer, producer, and actress. Their partnership, while kept relatively private, has become a beacon of mutual respect and support in the entertainment industry.
Who Is Lena Waithe?
Lena Waithe is a multifaceted talent in Hollywood, known for her work as a writer, producer, and actress. She made history in 2017 by becoming the first African-American woman to win the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series for the “Thanksgiving” episode of Master of None, which was based on her personal experience of coming out to her mother.
Waithe’s other notable works include producing the critically acclaimed film Queen & Slim and creating the television series The Chi. Her contributions have significantly impacted the representation of LGBTQ+ and African-American communities in media.
How Did Cynthia Erivo and Lena Waithe Meet?
The paths of Erivo and Waithe crossed at the Met Gala in 2018, an event known for bringing together influential figures from various industries. Waithe recalled their meeting in an interview, saying, “I had seen her in The Color Purple twice… I remember [thinking], ‘Who is this tiny person with a British accent?’ We’ve just been vibing ever since” .
Their initial connection blossomed into a strong friendship, with both attending various events together and supporting each other’s careers.
When Did Their Relationship Start?
While the duo maintained a close friendship for years, speculation about a romantic relationship began in 2020. However, it wasn’t until May 2022 that Erivo hinted at their relationship publicly. On Waithe’s birthday, Erivo posted on Instagram: “Today is when we celebrate a woman whose heart is bigger than the body that houses it. Happy birthday @lenawaithe I ……. You know the rest!” .
This affectionate message, coupled with their frequent appearances together, led fans to believe that their relationship had evolved beyond friendship.
Public Appearances and Support
Erivo and Waithe have been seen together at numerous high-profile events, showcasing their support for each other’s endeavors. In 2022, they attended the GLAAD Media Awards, the Tony Awards, and the BET Awards. Their presence at these events highlighted their commitment to celebrating and uplifting marginalized communities in the arts .
Waithe has been particularly supportive of Erivo’s role in Wicked. She attended the film’s premieres in Los Angeles and London, sharing behind-the-scenes photos and praising Erivo’s performance on social media. Waithe’s public displays of support underscore the strength of their partnership .
Lena Waithe’s Past Relationship
Before her relationship with Erivo, Waithe was married to Alana Mayo, a content executive. The couple married in 2019 but announced their separation just two months later. Mayo filed for divorce in November 2020, and it was finalized in 2021 .
Cynthia Erivo on Her Sexuality
In a 2022 interview with British Vogue, Erivo opened up about her sexuality, sharing that she is attracted to both men and women. She stated, “I feel like I knew it when I was around 15 but didn’t know what to call it. I didn’t have the vocabulary for it. I knew I was attracted to both men and women. I was attracted to people” .
Erivo’s candidness about her identity has been praised for contributing to greater visibility and representation for the LGBTQ+ community.
Conclusion
Cynthia Erivo and Lena Waithe’s relationship is a testament to the power of mutual support and understanding. While they choose to keep many aspects of their partnership private, their public appearances and expressions of admiration for each other speak volumes. As trailblazers in their respective fields, they continue to inspire fans with their talent, authenticity, and commitment to representation.
FAQs
Is Cynthia Erivo in a relationship?
Yes, Cynthia Erivo is in a relationship with Lena Waithe, an accomplished writer, producer, and actress.
Who is Lena Waithe?
Lena Waithe is an Emmy-winning writer and producer known for her work on Master of None, Queen & Slim, and The Chi. She is also recognized for her advocacy for LGBTQ+ representation in media.
When did Cynthia Erivo and Lena Waithe start dating?
While the exact timeline is private, the pair’s romantic relationship became public in 2022, following years of close friendship.
Was Lena Waithe married before?
Yes, Lena Waithe was previously married to Alana Mayo. They married in 2019 and separated shortly after, with the divorce finalized in 2021.
What has Cynthia Erivo said about her sexuality?
In a 2022 interview with British Vogue, Erivo shared that she is attracted to both men and women, expressing that she has been aware of her sexuality since her teenage years.