Cynthia Erivo, the British actress and singer, made a bold statement at this year’s Oscars with her striking appearance. Her choice of outfit and makeup sparked a debate among viewers and critics, as she prepares to take on the role of Jesus in the upcoming production of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’. While some praised her for her bold fashion sense, others criticized her for straying from traditional representations of Jesus. However, a closer look at Erivo’s look reveals a much deeper significance, shedding light on the issue of representation in Hollywood.
Erivo’s outfit for the Oscars was a black and white custom-made Louis Vuitton gown, adorned with a high neck and dramatic puffed sleeves. Her hair was styled in a sleek, high ponytail and her makeup featured a bold, dark lip and intense smoky eyes. Some viewers were quick to compare her look to that of a “demonic vampire”, with her all-black ensemble and striking features. But what many failed to realize is that Erivo’s look was a deliberate choice, one that holds a significant message in the context of her upcoming role.
The controversy surrounding Erivo’s casting as Jesus in ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ is not new. The musical, which was first performed in 1970, has faced criticism for its portrayal of Jesus as a rock star and for its lack of diversity in casting. Erivo’s casting as Jesus has been met with both praise and backlash, with some applauding the diversity and others questioning the appropriateness of a black woman playing the role of a religious figure. However, Erivo’s bold appearance at the Oscars challenges these narrow-minded views and brings to light the need for more diverse representations in Hollywood.
Erivo’s choice to wear an all-black outfit can be seen as a statement of defiance against the traditional portrayal of Jesus as a white man. It challenges the Eurocentric standards of beauty and breaks away from the limited and often inaccurate representations of Jesus in mainstream media. By embracing her own identity and culture, Erivo is breaking barriers and paving the way for more diverse and inclusive representations in the entertainment industry.
Moreover, her bold makeup and edgy fashion sense can be seen as a reflection of the modern interpretation of Jesus in ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’. The musical, which is set in the 1970s, portrays Jesus as a rock star and challenges the traditional perception of him as a peaceful and meek figure. Erivo’s look at the Oscars perfectly captures the essence of this modern interpretation, while also making a powerful statement about the need for diverse and unconventional representations.
In a time where diversity and representation are crucial issues in Hollywood, Erivo’s bold appearance at the Oscars serves as a reminder that change is necessary. It challenges the industry to move away from the stereotypical and often whitewashed portrayals and embrace diversity and inclusivity. Erivo’s casting as Jesus and her striking appearance at the Oscars are steps towards a more inclusive and representative entertainment industry.
In conclusion, Cynthia Erivo’s bold look at the Oscars may have sparked debate, but it also sheds light on the larger issue of representation in Hollywood. Her deliberate choice to challenge traditional standards of beauty and embrace her own identity sends a powerful message about the need for diversity and inclusivity in the entertainment industry. As she prepares to take on the role of Jesus in ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’, Erivo’s appearance at the Oscars serves as a beacon of hope for a more inclusive and representative future in Hollywood.
