Cynthia Erivo questions 'Wicked' director Jon M Chu’s Oscar snub despite film earning 10 nominations

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Cynthia Erivo has voiced her confusion and disappointment over the exclusion of 'Wicked' director Jon M Chu from the Best Director category.

This comes as 'Wicked' secured an impressive 10 Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Actress for Erivo, and Best Supporting Actress for Ariana Grande.

Cynthia Erivo highlights Jon M Chu’s vision for 'Wicked'

Speaking at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, where she received the Visionary Award, Erivo, who stars as Elphaba in the Oscar-nominated 'Wicked', said, “I don’t know."

"I wish people understood just how much work has to go into creating a big, giant behemoth like 'Wicked'," she shared.

"None of that can happen without his vision," she told Variety.

Erivo highlighted the exhaustive effort required to adapt the beloved stage musical into a cinematic masterpiece.

“He’s the one who can see who is right for this, who cast us in these roles, who asked for nine million tulips, who says he wants to build a real set so it feels embedded in reality,” she explained.

Chu’s dedication extended to every facet of the production, including unique cinematic choices like framing Elphaba’s emotional descent in the Ozdust Ballroom with a close-up.

“There is a kind of vision you need to control something that could run away from you very quickly if you don’t know what to do,” Erivo said.

Jon M Chu receives recognition from 'Wicked' stars

Cynthia Erivo was not the only one who praised Jon M Chu for his efforts.

Ariana Grande, who plays Glinda in 'Wicked' and is nominated for Best Supporting Actress, also spoke out about the snub.

“Absolutely none of this could have happened without his leadership, brilliance, empathy, and thoughtfulness,” Grande told Variety.

Grande revealed she had recently Facetimed with Chu to thank him.

“He feels that Wicked being celebrated is a celebration of him as well. He’s incredibly brilliant, and all the other nominations stem from Jon," she shared.

Jon M Chu's gratitude amid the snub

Despite the Oscars oversight, Jon M Chu has maintained his focus on the bigger picture, Erivo noted.

“He texted our group chat, ‘We did it!’ and he’s been consistently celebrating this moment. He’s so grateful for every nomination there is, and for Best Picture. That makes him happy,” she said.

The 'Wicked' director has also been lauded for his ability to juggle two films simultaneously, with 'Wicked: For Good' set to release in the near future.

“He made two films at the same time. That also takes skill," Erivo added.

“If he is happy, then I am happy. I want that for him,” she shared.