Cynthia Erivo Reveals How Father’s Abandonment Fueled Her Drive for Stardom

Acclaimed actress and singer Cynthia Erivo has broken her silence. She details a painful childhood moment in her new book. The event involved her father abandoning her as a teenager.

Erivo shares this in her upcoming memoir, “Simply More.” The revelation offers a raw look at the personal pain behind her public success. According to People Magazine, the story is a central part of her personal journey.

The Day Her World Changed in a London Station

Cynthia Erivo was just 16 years old. Her father left her alone in a London Underground station. This followed an argument about a transit pass.

He then told her he no longer wanted to be in their lives. Erivo recalls standing there in shock and confusion. She simply walked away, her head empty of thoughts.

This moment defined years of her life. She admits to pushing herself to extraordinary heights afterward. Her goal was simple yet complicated: to make him proud and earn his love.

From Seeking Validation to Finding Neutrality

The Oscar-nominated star’s drive led to remarkable achievements. She earned acclaim for roles in “Harriet” and “Wicked.” Yet the motivation was tied to that early abandonment.

Erivo writes that she no longer looks to him for love. She encourages others not to seek validation from those who cannot see them. This represents a significant personal breakthrough.

She states she has released her father from his paternal role. The actress says she harbors no animosity. She feels completely neutral about him now.

Erivo has reached a profound understanding. She believes he was never meant to be a dad. This acceptance frames her entire story of resilience.

The story of Cynthia Erivo and her father’s abandonment reveals the deep roots of artistic drive. Her journey from that London station to global stages is a testament to turning pain into power.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Q1: What did Cynthia Erivo’s father say to her?

He told her he did not want to be in their lives anymore. This happened after an argument in a London Underground station. Erivo was 16 years old at the time.

Q2: How did his abandonment affect her career?

Erivo says she pushed herself to become extraordinary to win his love and pride. This drive fueled her pursuit of success in acting and singing. It was a primary motivation for years.

Q3: How does she feel about him now?

She states she now feels “completely neutral” about him. Erivo says she harbors no anger and has released him from a fatherly role. She believes he was never meant to be a dad.

Q4: Where is this revelation published?

The story is shared in her upcoming memoir titled “Simply More: A Book for Anyone Who Has Been Told They’re Too Much.” An excerpt was first published by People Magazine.