Cynthia Erivo Kicks Off Thanksgiving Day Parade with an Enchanting Spectacle
The Rise of Elphaba
How the star of Wicked: For Good embodied her iconic role in a spectacular New York City event
By [Your Name or Placeholder]
November 27, 2025
Imagine the magic of Oz coming alive right in the heart of Manhattan— that's exactly what unfolded when Cynthia Erivo, the sensational talent behind Wicked: For Good, took the stage to launch the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. It's moments like these that remind us why this annual tradition captures the hearts of millions, blending joy, nostalgia, and a dash of Hollywood sparkle. But here's where it gets intriguing: How does one song, steeped in history, transform a simple parade opening into a cultural highlight?
To set the festive tone, Erivo delivered a soul-stirring rendition of “Feeling Good,” a tune famously brought to life by Nina Simone back in 1965. Originally crafted by songwriters Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse, and first performed by Cy Grant in the 1964 musical The Roar of the Greasepaint – The Smell of the Crowd, the song has become a timeless anthem of empowerment and uplift. For those new to its story, think of it as a musical journey from darkness to light, much like the themes in Wicked itself—perfect for beginners exploring Broadway's rich tapestry.
Picture this: Backed by a majestic pianist, Erivo sang from a shadowy, circular stage smack in the middle of the bustling street. She dazzled in a flowing oxblood gown, topped with a luxurious fur coat and a stylish slanted fedora that tied everything together. Her powerful delivery earned thunderous cheers, after which she warmly greeted the crowd and playfully snipped the ceremonial red ribbon with an oversized pair of scissors, as if wielding a wizard's wand. And this is the part most people miss: In a nod to her Wicked character Elphaba, Erivo channeled that fierce, misunderstood energy, making the performance feel like a direct extension of the film.
“I kept it under wraps,” Erivo confessed during an appearance on Late Night With Seth Meyers, referring to her chosen song for the parade kickoff. “I just hope I get to stay put this time. Lately, I've been pacing while performing, so standing still on solid ground will be a refreshing change.” It's these candid insights that humanize her, showing how even a superstar craves simplicity amid the chaos.
This dazzling display from Erivo arrives hot on the heels of the November 21 release of Wicked: For Good, the sequel to last year's blockbuster Wicked. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film has shattered box office records, cementing its status as the year's top-grossing movie. But here's where it gets controversial: Is Wicked's immense popularity redefining classic fairy tales for modern audiences, or is it simply cashing in on nostalgia? Some fans argue it's a bold reimagining of The Wizard of Oz, empowering characters like Elphaba, while others worry it might overshadow the original's innocence. What do you think—does this shift enrich or dilute the story?
Joining Erivo on the parade lineup are a stellar array of performers, including country sensation Lainey Wilson, R&B icon Ciara, the vocal talents behind the K-pop group Demon Hunters, pop heartthrob Conan Gray, rising star Russell Dickerson, and hip-hop legend Busta Rhymes. Adding to the whimsy, four fresh balloon characters will float by: Toy Story's adventurous Buzz Lightyear, Bandai Namco's arcade classic Pac-Man, Shrek's quirky Onion Carriage, and Nintendo's beloved Mario. These additions highlight how the parade evolves with pop culture, keeping it relevant for new generations—though purists might debate if it strays too far from traditional roots.
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“Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade unites families in a way no other TV event can, standing as a cherished ritual for countless viewers,” remarked Jen Neal, a top executive at NBCUniversal, upon unveiling the lineup. “Our enduring collaboration with Macy’s fuels our excitement to craft an unforgettable spectacle that so many hold dear.”
Catch the full parade live on NBC, Telemundo, or stream it seamlessly on Peacock.
As we wrap up this magical moment, ponder this: In an era of fast-paced entertainment, does a performance like Erivo's breathe new life into holiday traditions, or is it just another fleeting viral clip? And speaking of debates, should parades like this stick to wholesome classics, or embrace bold, boundary-pushing acts that spark conversations? Share your thoughts in the comments—do you agree that Wicked's influence is a game-changer, or are you team tradition? Let's discuss!
