Cynthia Erivo’s ‘Nigerian Wicked’ sketch goes viral
The world of television and pop culture is currently buzzing with the echoes of a sketch that proved that sometimes, the funniest stories are the ones you write about your own lived experiences. Cynthia Erivo recently brought this energy to the UK during her hosting of Saturday Night Live UK, delivering a performance that resonated far beyond the stage.
The centerpiece of the weekend was a vibrant parody of the beloved film Wicked, reimagined through the lens of Nollywood—the dynamic and influential Nigerian film industry of the early 2000s. This was not just a costume change; it was a cultural collision, bringing the magic of Oz into a distinctly Nigerian narrative.
In the sketch, Erivo stepped into the role of Glinda, meeting the dramatic figure of Elphaba, played by Ayoade Bamgboye. Their journey was packed with high-stakes, yet hilariously modern, desires. The dynamic unfolded as the two characters navigated their world, seeking not just magic, but contemporary wants. Glinda, in her quest for power, revealed she was asking The Wizard for a Birkin bag, while Elphaba pursued a desire for a “skinny BBL that defies gravity”. The chemistry between the pair was palpable, especially when their interactions led to near-kiss moments and Bamgboye’s attempt to deliver a memorable “Defying Gravity” note.
The sketch, written by Bamgboye and directed by Will Farrell, quickly became a viral sensation. It didn’t just entertain; it sparked a massive conversation, racking up more than 1.6 million views on YouTube and proving that audiences crave stories rooted in genuine experience. Fans praised the sketch for feeling authentic, noting that the writers room clearly captured the nuances of real-life relationships and experiences, rather than relying on manufactured jokes.
The success of Nigerian Wicked resonated deeply with viewers, highlighting a powerful response to LGBTQ themes in popular media. One fan on social media celebrated the sketch as perhaps the best SNL sketch ever, calling it “literally perfectly accurate” and praising the genuine voices behind the writing.
Beyond the main feature, Erivo showcased her versatility, adding further flair to the episode. She took on a queer version of Rapunzel, complete with an intentionally overgrown toenail, adding a playful edge to her performance. She also contributed to the musical parody of the episode, performing alongside Annabel Marlow with a sound that drew clear inspiration from Charli XCX’s Brat.
This performance, and the sketch itself, cemented Cynthia Erivo’s ability to blend theatrical performance with contemporary wit. While this episode marked the final chapter of the 2026 Saturday Night Live UK run, the laughter and inspiration generated by the production continue to play on, reminding us that the best stories are often the most beautifully real.
Buy on Amazon
Credit
