Cynthia Erivo Goes Completely Topless for Stunning PAPER Magazine Feature

Cynthia Erivo made a bold statement on the cover of PAPER Magazine, photographed by David LaChapelle, where she appears completely topless.

In the accompanying story by editor Joan Summers, Erivo opens up about her personal growth and the impact of her role as Elphaba in the “Wicked” films on her life and career.

Speaking about the second “Wicked” movie, Erivo shared, “This second film is much more grown up. She’s way more into her womanhood, and I wanted to embrace that, and I also felt like it’s a really beautiful way to sort of segue into being back on my own two feet, in my own lane.”

She explained how her style on the red carpet has evolved, moving from emerald tones inspired by the first film to more colorful, sleek outfits. “It’s like marrying Elphaba with me, finally, as opposed to just telling Elphaba’s story.”

Cynthia Erivo stuns for Paper Magazine. pic.twitter.com/bXZZkbnYjx

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Erivo also reflected on what parts of her character she might want to leave behind, admitting, “I don’t know if there’s anything I want to let go of.” She explained that the experience of playing Elphaba has had a lasting effect, not just professionally but personally. “It’s the way that people have opened up themselves to tell me their stories, the way people have embraced one another, embraced themselves because of the character.”

Looking back, Erivo sees her time with “Wicked” as a permanent part of her journey. “I’ve come to the realization that this piece is going to be a part of my life for the rest of my life, and it’s always going to be a part of the conversation of how my career is, and what my career has been. I’ve just surrendered to it and it’s kind of beautiful that this is the thing I get to surrender to.”

The photos for PAPER capture her confidence and transformation, highlighting her empowerment and self-expression, and the topless cover makes a striking visual statement about embracing one’s body and identity. Erivo’s candid reflections show her commitment to her craft, telling stories that matter to her while evolving as an artist and a woman.

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