At the 2025 Tony Awards, a surprising twist unfolded as host Cynthia Erivo delighted audiences with a special gift for the iconic Oprah Winfrey. This playful moment harked back to their heartwarming recreation of the “Holding Space” moment from the Wicked press tour, showcasing the camaraderie and humor between the two powerhouses. As a highlight of the evening, Oprah, renowned for her groundbreaking television career, presented the prestigious award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical, which was awarded to Nicole Scherzinger for her role in Sunset Boulevard.
During the lively broadcast, Cynthia approached Oprah with a mischievous grin and prompted her to check beneath her chair. In a delightful surprise, Oprah uncovered a golden box brimming with treats like Junior Mints, Haribo Gold Bears, and even a little red toy car. “You get a car!” Cynthia exclaimed, echoing the famous moment from Oprah’s 2004 giveaway, where she gifted 276 Pontiac G6 sedans to ecstatic audience members. “I’ve been waiting all night to do that!” she declared, drawing laughter from the audience as she connected the gift to the previous iconic car giveaway.
Recapping the Night: Laughs and High Notes
Cynthia’s comedic flair was just one facet of a night packed with memorable performances. She closed the show by delivering a powerful rendition of the lyrics, “And I am telling you I’m not going,” from Dreamgirls, wrapping up the ceremony with gusto. Her captivating opening number further showcased her remarkable vocal talents, setting a vibrant tone for the night.
Amid the laughter, a poignant tribute emerged during the In Memoriam segment, as Cynthia and singer Sara Bareilles harmonized beautifully on Tomorrow from Annie, honoring the late Charles Strouse, who recently passed away at 96. This heartfelt moment underscored Cynthia’s ability to blend humor and sincerity seamlessly.
The Iconic Car Giveaway Moment Revisited
The humor Cynthia brought to the stage during her skit with Oprah resonated with many. Oprah’s “You get a car!” has become legendary, yielding countless memes and inside jokes among fans. Cynthia’s clever delivery brought laughter, reminding everyone of why such moments are cherished in the world of entertainment. Oprah’s warm response and infectious smile reflected her enjoyment of the playful banter, making it a stand-out instance of the night.
Fans took to social media to celebrate not only the comedic brilliance of the moment but also Cynthia’s exceptional hosting capabilities. Many expressed their hope that she would be invited to return for next year’s awards, eager to see what kind of surprises she might have in store. For now, the buzz surrounding this year’s Tony Awards underscores the vibrant and evolving landscapes of theater and television, as seasoned stars pass the torch to newer generations while continuing to create unforgettable entertainment.
Source: Spencer Althouse/X