Cynthia Erivo to Host the 78th Tony Awards in June

NEW YORK, NY — Cynthia Erivo has been announced as the host of the 78th Annual Tony Awards, set for June 8 at Radio City Music Hall. The American Theatre Wing and Broadway League revealed her role in a statement on Wednesday.

Erivo, 38, is well-known for her performances in theater and film. She won the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 2016 for her role in “The Color Purple.” This year, she is nominated for an Academy Award for her role as Elphaba in the film adaptation of “Wicked.” “I am so proud and excited to take on this glorious honor,” Erivo said in a statement. “I am looking forward to ushering the theater 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.”

The Tony Awards will be broadcast live on CBS as well as available for streaming on Paramount+. This marks the first time Erivo will host the prestigious awards ceremony. Prior host Ariana DeBose emceed the event for the last three years.

As nominations for this year’s awards are set to be announced on May 1, Erivo’s stature in the theatrical community is underscored by her recent acclaim. She is one of the few performers to have been nominated for a Tony, Emmy, Grammy, and Oscar. Heather Hitchens, president and CEO of the American Theater Wing, praised Erivo’s contributions to theater, stating, “Her talent defies gravity and boundaries, and we are beyond thrilled to welcome her home to Broadway for what will be a joyful and inspiring celebration of the theatrical art form.”

In addition to her Tony win, Erivo has won an Emmy and a Grammy and hopes to add an Oscar to her accolades at the upcoming Academy Awards. She has been recognized for her captivating performances in various roles, including her portrayal of Harriet Tubman in the film “Harriet” and Aretha Franklin in the series “Genius: Aretha.” Recently, she also starred in the Netflix film “Luther: The Fallen Sun,” showcasing her versatility on screen.

This year’s Tony Awards will take place at Radio City Music Hall for the first time since 2022, following ceremonies held at different venues in the past two years. Erivo’s dynamic presence is expected to elevate the evening, celebrating the achievements of the Broadway season.