Cynthia Erivo and Lena Waithe’s relationship has drawn attention since they began dating publicly in 2022. Their connection started at the 2018 Met Gala, but it was not until four years later that they confirmed their romance. They have faced rumors about the origins of their relationship, particularly accusations of an affair.
Cynthia Erivo and Lena Waithe: A Timeline of Their Relationship
Initial Meeting in 2018
Erivo and Waithe first crossed paths at the Met Gala in May 2018. At that time, Waithe was engaged to Alana Mayo. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Erivo described Waithe as “absolutely everything,” marking the start of their friendship.
The Growth of Their Friendship
- They attended various events together, acting as each other’s plus ones.
- Key appearances included the Hollywood Foreign Press Association’s Grants Banquet in August 2018 and the Palm Springs International Film Festival in January 2020.
Changes in Personal Lives
In January 2020, shortly after Waithe presented an award to Erivo, her marriage to Mayo ended. The announcement of their breakup was made on January 22, citing mutual support in their separation.
Speculations and Accusations
While Erivo and Waithe maintained their friendship, rumors circulated suggesting Waithe had an affair with Erivo during her marriage. These claims emerged in January 2020, but both women have not publicly addressed them.
Going Public with Their Relationship
In May 2022, Erivo celebrated Waithe’s birthday with a public Instagram post, confirming their relationship. This came after several joint appearances at events between 2020 and 2022, including the Grammys and Oscars.
Erivo’s Coming Out
In July 2022, Erivo declared her queer identity in an interview with British Vogue. She expressed that understanding her sexuality had been a long journey, emphasizing her attraction to both men and women.
Supporting Each Other’s Careers
Waithe has been a steadfast supporter of Erivo’s career. This was evident during the premiere of Erivo’s role in Wicked in November 2024, where Waithe attended wearing green, akin to Erivo’s character Elphaba. Throughout the Wicked promotions, Waithe frequently supported Erivo on social media, showcasing her pride in Erivo’s achievements.
Visibility at Award Shows
During the 2025 awards season, Waithe was consistently seen alongside Erivo at key events. They attended the Golden Globes, Grammys, and the Essence Black Women in Hollywood Awards together, demonstrating their united front amid persistent scrutiny.
In conclusion, Cynthia Erivo and Lena Waithe’s relationship illustrates a blend of deep friendship and romantic partnership marked by mutual support and ongoing personal growth. As they navigate their careers and public interest, both remain committed to one another.
