Cynthia Erivo’s Body Language ‘Was a Study in Control’ After Oscar Loss, Expert Says
Wicked captured the hearts of many in 2024, leading to 10 total Oscar nominations at the 97th Annual Academy Awards. Cynthia Erivo played Elphaba alongside Ariana Grande’s Glinda, and the actors opened the Oscars with their rendition of “Defying Gravity.” Sadly, Erivo didn’t take home the win for Best Actress in a Leading Role. Here’s what a body language expert noticed about how Erivo gracefully took the loss.
Cynthia Erivo showed composure after losing for Best Actress at the Academy Awards
Wicked star Cynthia Erivo didn’t take the attention away from best actress winner Mikey Madison. Madison won the Academy Award for her role in Anora. While Erivo would’ve loved the honor, she took the loss well. Body language expert and poker professional Owain Flanders told VegasSlotsOnline that Erivo showed immense composure when Madison won the award.
“Erivo’s response was a study in control,” the expert explained. “As the winner’s name was announced, she didn’t flinch. A subtle nod, paired with a restrained smile, showed she processed the result without letting her emotions take over.”
Flanders noted that Erivo’s calm demeanor put the focus back on the collective celebration of the artists. “Her measured actions during the applause showed a gracious contender, maintaining professionalism even in defeat,” the expert continued.
Despite Erivo’s loss, she was still incredibly proud of Wicked taking home two wins. Paul Tazewell won Best Costume Design, and Lee Sandeles and Nathan Crowley won Best Production Design.
Cynthia Erivo said her Oscar nomination in 2025 felt ‘different’
Cynthia Erivo has been nominated for Oscars in the past. In 2019, the Academy recognized her efforts in Harriet. She received nominations in the best original song and best actress categories. However, in 2025, she told Good Morning America that her nomination for Wicked felt “different.”
“Maybe because of what it is, and what it’s for,” Erivo said. “It’s really wonderful.”
Erivo couldn’t have been happier to work alongside Ariana Grande in Wicked. “We sort of knew immediately that we needed to be hand in hand,” she said. “The two of us had all of the conversations, like, the deepest conversations that we could have. By the end of it, we knew each other’s tells, each other’s signs. Like, OK, she’s tired, or I’m tired, or I’ll take this one, maybe.”
As for the role of Elphaba, Erivo felt particularly connected to Elphaba stepping into her power. “I just understand what it feels like for people to expect less of you than you can give, you know?” she continued. “And that’s this character. I know what it’s like to have been bullied. I know what it’s like to walk into a room and no one wants you there.”
Ariana Grande masked ‘any potential disappointment’ after losing Best Actress in a Supporting Role
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo sang beautifully at the start of the 97th Annual Academy Awards. Unfortunately, Grande didn’t win for Best Actress in a Supporting Role. However, body language expert Owain Flanders noted that Grande masked “any potential disappointment” by maintaining good sportsmanship.
“Grande’s body language was expressive, but still polished,” Flanders noted. “As the category neared, her increased blinking suggested nerves or excitement. When the winner was announced, she shrugged, smiled, and clapped, masking any potential disappointment. Her cheerful energy, paired with a visible cheer for Zoe Saldaña, reflected her sportsmanship.”
“Her smile never wavered — a clear sign of someone truly comfortable, regardless of the outcome,” Flanders continued.
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