Cynthia Erivo Defends Portrayal of Harriet Tubman

Cynthia Erivo, the British actress who plays Harriet Tubman in the new movie "Harriet," has spoken out about the criticism she faced for being cast in the role. Some argued that an American actress should have been chosen to portray the legendary abolitionist. Erivo, a Tony Award winner for her stage work, addressed these concerns in an interview, emphasizing her deep respect for Tubman and her commitment to accurately portraying her story.

"It's an honor to play someone like Harriet Tubman," Erivo said. "I understand the concerns people had, but I approached the role with immense dedication and research. My goal was to capture the essence of her spirit and her unwavering fight for freedom."

The actress acknowledged the weight of responsibility that came with the role, noting that she spent considerable time learning about Tubman's life and the historical context of her actions. She worked with historians and cultural consultants to ensure authenticity in her portrayal. Erivo hopes that her performance will inspire audiences to learn more about Harriet Tubman and her extraordinary contributions to American history. The film "Harriet" aims to bring Tubman's story to a wider audience and celebrate her enduring legacy.