British actress and singer Cynthia Erivo sat down with the Los Angeles Times on Monday, where she opened up about being the only person of color to be nominated in this year’s Oscars for her performance in “Harriet,” where she effortlessly portrayed abolitionist Harriet Tubman as well as co-wrote the film’s original song “Stand Up.”
While the 33-year-old expressed her gratitude for being a nominee, she also expressed her disdain for the lack of black representation at this year’s awards.
“It is bittersweet really and truly because while I worked very hard for what was happening, I also would have loved to be able to celebrate with other people of color who worked really hard this year also.”
Cynthia Erivo is only the 11th black woman to be nominated for Best Actress, and will make only the second to win it if she takes home the trophy.
“I don’t think it creates pressure, but I do think it’s sad that there’s only one woman of color who has won that award. I do hope that that changes at some point,” she said.
The Oscars have come under fire once again for its obvious snub of black people in entertainment, including Beyonce, Jamie Foxx, Alfre Woodard, and Eddie Murphy.
The award ceremony will take place at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California on February 8th.
