Harvard University's Hasty Pudding Theatricals announced on Tuesday that Cynthia Erivo, currently starring in the hit musical 'Wicked,' has been selected as the 2025 Woman of the Year. The prestigious theater group, established in 1844 and recognized as the world's third-oldest operating theater organization, will honor Erivo with the Pudding Pot award at a celebratory roast scheduled for February 5.
Following the award ceremony, Erivo will attend a performance of Hasty Pudding Theatricals' 176th production, titled '101 Damnations.' Joining her in the accolades is actor Jon Hamm, known for his role as Don Draper on the acclaimed AMC series 'Mad Men,' who has been named the 2025 Man of the Year and will receive his Pudding Pot on January 31.
The Events Coordinator, Hannah Frazer, expressed excitement about Erivo's upcoming visit, stating, 'We are holding space for Cynthia Erivo’s arrival. We’re sweeping out our broomstick closets and prepping some wicked smart humor as we eagerly await her in February. Before she flies off with her Pudding Pot, she’ll have to work a little magic to earn it.'
Erivo, a British entertainer, has garnered critical acclaim for her performances, including being a two-time Oscar nominee and a recipient of Emmy, Tony, and Grammy Awards. She rose to fame with her Tony-winning portrayal in the Broadway revival of 'The Color Purple' in 2016, followed by a Daytime Emmy for her musical performance on the 'Today' show and a Grammy for the show's soundtrack.
In recent years, Erivo has continued to showcase her talent, starring in and producing 'Drift,' a film depicting the journey of a young Liberian refugee to a Greek island. Her portrayal of Aretha Franklin in the National Geographic series 'Genius: Aretha' earned her an Emmy nomination in 2021.
Since 1951, the Hasty Pudding Theatricals has recognized outstanding actors with the Woman of the Year award, with past recipients including Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts, Scarlett Johansson, and Annette Bening.
