Cynthia Erivo, the multi-award-winning actress known for Wicked and The Color Purple, will host the 76th Tony Awards on June 8 at New York’s Radio City Music Hall. This marks Erivo’s first time hosting Broadway’s biggest night as she inches closer to completing her EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony) – a distinction only 19 artists hold.
Erivo stated in a press release:
I am so proud to guide our theater community through this celebration of artistry. Hosting the Tonys feels like coming home – it’s where musical theater and storytelling collide.
Key details about the 2024 ceremony:
- Streaming live on Paramount+ and CBS starting 8 PM ET
- Presented by The Broadway League and American Theatre Wing
- Expect performances from Best Musical nominees like Hell’s Kitchen
With three Academy Award nominations and a 2017 Tony for The Color Purple, Erivo brings both credibility and mainstream appeal. Her casting follows recent hosts like Ariana DeBose, signaling the Tonys’ push for relatable, cross-industry figures. Heather Hitchens of the American Theatre Wing emphasized: Cynthia embodies our mission to showcase theater’s global cultural impact.
Industry analysts predict Erivo’s involvement could boost viewership among younger demographics. The 2023 telecast drew 4.3 million viewers – a 7% increase from 2022. With major contenders like Daniel Radcliffe (Merrily We Roll Along) expected to win, this year’s show could break streaming records on Paramount+.
