Who is Lena Waithe? Meet Wicked for Good star Cynthia Erivo’s partner and explore their love story
Cynthia Erivo, the acclaimed Wicked for Good star known for her powerhouse performances and bold presence on screen and stage, has also drawn attention for her personal life. At the center of that spotlight is her partner, Emmy-winning creator Lena Waithe. While Erivo continues to captivate audiences with her rising career, her relationship with Waithe adds another layer of intrigue, with the couple maintaining a largely private but much-discussed bond.
( Image credit : X/ @Nostamoments | Lena Waithe and Cynthia Erivo during an event )
Who is Lena Waithe?
Lena Waithe is an acclaimed American writer, producer, and actor celebrated for her influential contributions to film and television. She first gained major recognition with Master of None, becoming the first Black woman to win an Emmy for Outstanding Writing in a Comedy Series. Since then, she has created notable projects like The Chi, Twenties, and Boomerang, and co-wrote the acclaimed film Queen & Slim. Alongside her acting roles in Master of None, Ready Player One, and Westworld, Waithe continues to champion queer Black representation in Hollywood through her production company, Hillman Grad Productions.
( Image credit : X/ @Nostamoments | Cynthia Erivo and Lena Waithe pose with friends )
Lena Waithe and Cynthia Erivo’s love story
Lena Waithe and Cynthia Erivo’s relationship traces back to their first meeting at the 2018 Met Gala, where they immediately connected and formed a close friendship. Their bond gradually deepened, and by early 2020, after Waithe’s separation from her wife, they were reportedly romantically involved, though both have chosen to keep their personal lives mostly out of the spotlight. Erivo’s affectionate 2022 birthday tribute to Waithe offered a rare public glimpse into their connection, and since then they’ve continued to support each other’s creative paths. Together, they represent two powerful voices in LGBTQ+ storytelling, with a relationship rooted in shared artistry and mutual respect.
( Image credit : X/ @reservafonteari | Frankie Grande, Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Lena Waithe e Jon M. Chu em paris )
About Wicked for Good
Wicked: For Good is the second chapter of Jon M. Chu’s two-part film adaptation of the beloved musical Wwicked, slated to release on November 21, 2025. The film follows Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba, now in hiding and fighting for the freedom of Oz’s oppressed Animals, while Ariana Grande’s Glinda continues her rise as Emerald City’s cherished public figure. As the political stakes intensify, both women are forced to confront their shared past and the forces threatening to reshape Oz, leading to a powerful and emotional finale to their story.
