BUZZ BEAT MEDIA

Cynthia Erivo, the multi-award-winning actress, singer, and producer, has been announced as the host of the 78th Annual Tony Awards, set to take place on June 8, 2025. The ceremony, celebrating the best of Broadway’s 2024-2025 season, will return to the iconic Radio City Music Hall in New York City. 

It will be broadcast live on CBS from 8:00 to 11:00 PM ET (5:00 to 8:00 PM PT) and streamed on Paramount+ in the U.S.

Erivo, who has won a Tony, Emmy, and Grammy and is a three-time Academy Award nominee, expressed her excitement about leading the prestigious event. “I am so proud and excited to take on this glorious honor,” she said. “I am looking forward to ushering the theatre 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.”

Heather Hitchens, President & CEO of the American Theatre Wing, and Jason Laks, President of The Broadway League, praised Erivo’s impact on musical theater. “Through performances on both stage and screen, Cynthia has extended the magic of musical theater to millions of new fans around the globe — and that is exactly the mission of the Tony Awards,” they stated. “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 artform.”

CBS Vice President of Specials Mackenzie Mitchell echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Erivo’s deep roots in theater and her ability to deliver an unforgettable evening. “There is no doubt that with her innate creativity and captivating presence, she will highlight the extraordinary achievements of this Broadway season,” Mitchell said.

Erivo first rose to fame with her performance as Celie in The Color Purple, which earned her a Tony Award for Best Leading Actress in a Musical in 2016. She has since built a distinguished career across theater, film, and television. Most recently, she starred as Elphaba in Wicked: Part One, the record-breaking film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical. 

Released in November 2024, the film became the highest-grossing movie ever based on a Broadway show. Erivo’s portrayal earned her multiple award nominations, including from the Golden Globes, SAG, BAFTA, and the Academy Awards.

Beyond Wicked, Erivo has made a mark in Hollywood with roles in Harriet, Genius: Aretha, and Luther: The Fallen Sun. She has also showcased her musical talent with a Grammy-nominated debut album and headlining performances at prestigious events like the Kennedy Center Honors and the Academy Awards.

The Tony Awards, produced in collaboration with the American Theatre Wing and The Broadway League, will celebrate the outstanding achievements of the Broadway season. Nominations will be announced on May 1, 2025. Executive producers Ricky Kirshner and Glenn Weiss will oversee the production, with Weiss also serving as the director.

With Erivo at the helm, the 78th Tony Awards promises to be an evening of celebration, inspiration, and show-stopping performances, honoring the best in Broadway theater.

*Cover Photo/Thumbnail Photo Taken by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic