Cynthia Erivo reveals that she only got «2 to 3 hours» of sleep each night while working on Wicked, admitting, «There were no easy days.»
At a *Wicked* screening and Q&A with Kristen Bell at the Academy Museum’s Ted Mann Theatre in Los Angeles on Thursday, December 12, actress Cynthia Erivo, 37, shared that she sacrificed sleep while portraying Elphaba in the newly released film.
«I consciously gravitate toward roles that challenge me both physically and mentally, because I believe the body and mind are deeply connected,» Erivo explained.
She continued, «Sometimes, the body dictates what the mind should do, and other times, the mind leads the body. I consider myself a very physical person, and I want both aspects to be in motion, to be fully engaged.»
The actress admitted she struggles with whether pushing herself so hard for her roles is truly “healthy,” revealing that during filming for *Wicked*, she often slept for less than three hours a night.
Erivo explained that her day would start with a two-hour workout, followed by up to two hours in the makeup chair to prepare for her 5 a.m. call time.
She emphasized that staying in top physical condition was crucial for performing the flying stunts required for her role.
«I had never flown before, and while I’d done a little bit of flying, nothing like this,» Erivo said. «It requires your core to be incredibly strong because the wires take you from one point to another.»
She continued, «My stunt coordinator, Jo McLaren, was fantastic. She would ask me, ‘Are you sure you want to do all of this?’ and I’d say, ‘Yes.’
To be ready for the stunts, I needed to train my body so that when the wires moved me through loops, I wouldn’t let my legs fall behind me.»
For Erivo, a number of «self-imposed» lifestyle choices have played a key role in helping her sustain her demanding routine.
«I discovered that an infrared sauna blanket is really effective for easing internal bruising,» Erivo shared.
«I also found that working with a therapist helps with that as well. When I’m in this mode, I live a bit like a monk.»
She added, «I don’t drink, smoke, or eat meat—I’m sorry, but I lead a pretty boring life. I mostly just stay at home.»
«There were no easy days. Not a single one,» Erivo clarified.
