Cynthia Erivo and Lena Waithe: A Journey of Friendship and Support

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Actress Cynthia Erivo and writer Lena Waithe have ignited interest in their relationship, which has blossomed through significant milestones in both their careers. Their friendship became evident during Erivo’s press tour for her role in *Wicked*, as they shared heartfelt moments and unwavering support.

Their paths first crossed at the 2019 Met Gala, a place where trends meet iconic encounters. As Waithe recounted in *Variety*, “The first time I met her was at the Met Gala… I remember [thinking], Who is this tiny person with a British accent?” Erivo expressed her excitement on Instagram, stating, “I finally found my sis. Lena, you are absolutely everything.”

The bond between the two grew, leading them to attend multiple events together, including the GLAAD Media Awards and the BET Awards. Their connection remained supportive even amid personal challenges. In 2020, Waithe announced her divorce from Alana Mayo just two months after their marriage, stating, “We have nothing but support for one another and ask that you respect our privacy during this time.”

Throughout their friendship, Erivo has celebrated Waithe’s achievements, notably on her birthday, posting, “Today is when we celebrate a woman whose heart is bigger than the body that houses it.” The actresses continued to show support for each other, particularly during awards seasons, where they frequently appeared together.

In interviews, Erivo has opened up about her sexuality, hinting at her attraction to both men and women, stating, “I feel like I knew it when I was around 15 but didn’t know what to call it.” This admission is significant as it offers insight into her personal journey while highlighting the support she has received from friends like Waithe.

Their camaraderie has also been illustrated through public appearances, including Waithe attending the premiere of *Wicked* and cheering for Erivo during her performances. Most recently, they were spotted together at the 2025 Grammy Awards and the NAACP Image Awards, where their close friendship was evident, creating buzz among fans.

As Erivo continues to shine in the spotlight, nominated for another Oscar for her performance in *Wicked*, enthusiasts are curious about her dating life. Erivo previously dated Dean John-Wilson and Mario Martinez before coming out as queer in 2021 and later identifying as bisexual. She declared her newfound understanding of her identity in an interview on *The Kelly Clarkson Show*, where she said, “It’s come much later to me now, and it’s wonderful to just be me.”

Currently, Erivo’s romantic life has stirred speculation regarding her relationship with Waithe, who has been an essential part of her journey. Waithe, known for her groundbreaking work in television and film, has shared, “It’s hard out there on Twitter when people have opinions, but I think she’s handled it with grace.”

As the Wicked press tour progresses, the focus remains on Erivo not just for her incredible talent but also for the supportive figures like Waithe in her life, showcasing the importance of solidarity and friendship in the entertainment industry.