Oprah accused of RUINING Cynthia Erivo's Tony Awards 2025 hosting debut with 'unnecessary' Wicked skit
Cynthia Erivo drew a mixed reaction as she hosted the 2025 Tony Awards on Sunday —delivering a performance that fans called both electrifying and cringeworthy.
But according to many viewers, the cringe wasn't Cynthia's fault—it was thanks to an unexpected cameo from Oprah Winfrey.
The 38-year-old British actress and singer was making her debut as emcee of the prestigious event and had just begun her walk from backstage to center stage when Oprah suddenly appeared onscreen to offer her support.
The iconic TV host even referenced Cynthia's now-viral finger-holding moment with Ariana Grande during last year's Wicked promo tour.
While Cynthia's bold red dress with a white collar drew comparisons to Little Orphan Annie, it was Oprah's surprise appearance that truly set social media ablaze, with fans calling her involvement 'unnecessary' and distracting.
The iconic TV host even referenced Cynthia's now-viral finger-holding moment with Ariana Grande during last year's Wicked promo tour
'Oprah had to ruin the moment. Of course she had to put herself in the beginning #TonyAwards,' one frustrated fan posted.
Another chimed in, 'Oprah was unnecessary #TonyAwards.'
And a third wrote bluntly, 'Why does Oprah have to be in everything?'
Meanwhile, this year's Tony's features major star power in the lead actor and actress categories.
George Clooney is competing for his massively successful play Good Night, And Good Luck — an adaptation of the film of the same name that he directed, co-wrote and costarred in.
Darren Criss and Jonathan Groff are adding some star power to the lead actor in a musical category, while Megan Hilty, Nicole Scherzinger and Broadway legend Audra McDonald are some of the biggest names in the lead actress in a musical category.
Presenters this year include Charli D'Amelio, Michelle Williams, Hacks' Jean Smart, LaTanya Richardson Jackson and Lea Salonga, all of whom are currently appearing on Broadway.
The stage icon Kristin Chenoweth will also be presenting, while Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter will have a Bill and Ted reunion on stage ahead of their upcoming production of Samuel Beckett's Waiting For Godot. Glee star Lea Michele will also be joined on stage by Aaron Tveit.
While Cynthia's bold red dress with a white collar drew comparisons to Little Orphan Annie, it was Oprah's surprise appearance that truly set social media ablaze, with fans calling her involvement 'unnecessary' and distracting
Several former Tony winners will be helping to announce awards, including Oprah Winfrey, Bryan Cranston, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Sarah Paulson, Renée Elise Goldsberry, Kelli O'Hara and Rachel Bay Jones.
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