What motivated Cynthia Erivo to take on the challenge of playing multiple characters in a single episode? How did she prepare for the role, and what strategies did she use to differentiate between the five sisters? How did her busy schedule intersect with filming for the episode?
Cynthia Erivo is opening up about her experience playing multiple characters for an episode of Poker Face.
During a recent interview with Vanity Fair, the Oscar-nominated actress admitted she felt “totally insane” when “we were doing four of the characters” in a single scene for season two of creator Rian Johnson’s crime comedy-drama series.
In total, the Wicked star plays five sisters in an episode of the upcoming season, which she knew was going to be a challenge going into filming but one she was happy to take on.
“I knew that my head would be split into many different spaces, but I was like, ‘Well, if not now, then when?’” Erivo explained. “I’m always open to trying things that I haven’t done before, and I wanted to do this. I wanted to figure out what it would be like to compartmentalize and play different characters all at once, to challenge myself to see if it was possible.”
The Harriet actress noted she used each character’s costumes, wigs, and accents to help determine their individual personalities. However, she still felt “crazy” at times being her own scene partner.
“I’d play one side, and I’d have a lovely stand-in doing the other side,” Erivo said. “I would still have to remember what I did on one side so that my reaction would match the other way, so that it would make sense when speaking to each other.”
Poker Face, starring Natasha Lyonne, follows her character Charlie Cale, a woman with an uncanny ability to detect lies, who solves crimes while traveling the country. Season two premieres on Peacock May 8.
Erivo also revealed to Vanity Fair that she shot the episode while in the middle of her busy Wicked press tour with Ariana Grande, making it even more difficult.
“We were in the midst of everything, doing everything, going everywhere,” the actress-singer recalled. “I had 11 straight days of shooting this baby in New York…. To say I was mentally exhausted is an understatement. I would get to the end of the day and not even really know my own name. I’d be like, ‘I don’t know where I am.’”
“It was absolutely manic,” she added. “But in the best possible way.”
Cynthia Erivo Says Playing Multiple Roles on ‘Poker Face’ Was ‘Insane’
In the world of television, versatility can often be a hallmark of a truly talented performer. Cynthia Erivo, an accomplished actress and singer known for her extraordinary range, recently opened up about her experience on the hit series “Poker Face,” directed by Rian Johnson. The show, which has captivated audiences with its intriguing storylines and dynamic characters, provided Erivo with a unique challenge: she played multiple roles across various episodes, leading her to describe the experience as “insane.”
The Concept of "Poker Face"
“Poker Face,” which premiered to critical acclaim, has been lauded for its fresh take on the mystery and detective genre. Each episode follows the protagonist, Charlie Cale, played by Natasha Lyonne, as she travels across the country solving murders she inadvertently stumbles upon. The show cleverly mixes a whodunit format with dark comedy, making it a unique viewing experience. With its anthology setup, each episode features a new cast of characters, allowing for a plethora of storylines, twists, and turns.
Erivo’s decision to take on multiple roles within this framework was an exciting yet daunting task. “It was a bit wild to be honest,” she remarked during interviews. The actress is no stranger to complex characters, having showcased her dramatic skills in productions ranging from Broadway to film. However, “Poker Face” presented her with an unprecedented opportunity to explore the depths of her talent in a short span of time.
The Challenge of Versatility
When discussing the challenges of portraying multiple characters, Erivo emphasized the psychological toll that came with switching between roles throughout the filming process. “You’re trying to find the core of each character while letting their distinctiveness shine,” Erivo explained. This required her to adopt different mindsets and physicalities, all while maintaining a coherent emotional throughline.
For Erivo, preparation was key. “I had to dive deep into understanding who each character was—what their motivations were, how they communicated, and what made them unique,” she shared. This undertaking involves not just memorizing lines but embodying the nuances that define each person she portrayed. From a tech-savvy genius to a woman with hidden fears, each role brought its own demands and depth.
The Joy of Creativity
Despite the challenges, Erivo describes the experience as a creative high. “The art of storytelling is so powerful, and being part of a narrative that allows you to tell multiple stories at once is exhilarating,” she explained. Playing different characters in a show like “Poker Face” allows an actor to stretch their abilities and push the boundaries of their craft. Each role essentially serves as a new canvas, where one can paint with different colors and expressions.
Cynthia relished the collaborative environment that the show fostered. Working alongside talented members of the cast and crew provided her with the opportunity to learn and grow. “Rian [Johnson] created an atmosphere where creativity thrived. It felt like a safe space to experiment with these characters,” she stated. The camaraderie among the cast led to memorable moments both on and off set, adding depth to her performances.
A Testament to Skill
Taking on multiple roles in a single production is more than just a display of versatility; it demonstrates an actor’s range and skill. Erivo’s performances are a testament to her dedication and passion. With her stunning vocal ability and a powerful on-screen presence, she has continually proven her worth in the competitive landscape of Hollywood.
Many in the industry believe that taking on such a diverse range of characters will only enhance her career opportunities in the future. As audiences witness her transition from role to role in “Poker Face,” they are treated to the full spectrum of her talent. This is not just about masterful acting; it is also about her ability to connect with viewers on an emotional level, making the stakes of each character feel real and palpable.
The Future of Cynthia Erivo
As the final episodes of “Poker Face” unfold, fans of Erivo are eagerly anticipating what’s next for this multifaceted artist. Recently, she expressed excitement about future projects, hinting that she may tackle even more diverse roles that challenge her artistry. “I’m just excited to see where the creativity takes me,” she said.
Cynthia Erivo’s journey in “Poker Face” serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the impact of skilled acting. By taking on the ambitious challenge of portraying multiple roles, she not only showcased her impressive talents but also contributed to a genre that thrives on suspense, emotion, and unexpected twists.
In summary, Cynthia Erivo’s experience in “Poker Face” not only highlights her incredible range as an actress but also underscores the growing trend in television to embrace anthology models that allow for unique storytelling. As audiences continue to tune in, they are sure to be captivated, not just by the plot, but by the rich, complex characters brought to life by Erivo’s remarkable performances.
Cynthia Erivo has expressed her excitement and challenges involved in playing multiple roles in the series “Poker Face.” She described the experience as “insane,” highlighting the complexity and intensity of switching between different characters. The versatility required for the roles pushed her boundaries as an actress, allowing her to explore various aspects of her craft. Erivo’s dedication to mastering these diverse characters adds depth to the show, showcasing her talent and versatility in a unique way. Her reflections on the role underscore the creative risks involved in acting and the rewarding nature of such challenges.