Cynthia Erivo, the acclaimed actress and singer, isn’t one to shy away from standing her ground. During a recent interview, the Wicked star expertly shut down comedian Dax Shepard when he questioned her about her long nails, asking how she manages basic hygiene. The exchange sparked widespread discussion about respecting celebrity boundaries and the fine line between humor and insensitivity.
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The Question and Cynthia’s Response
Shepard, known for his offbeat humor, asked Erivo how she wipes her backside with her notably long nails. Without missing a beat, Erivo delivered a sharp and dignified response:
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“Nobody uses just their fingers to wipe their backside. You use tissue, correct? And you wipe!” she said, addressing the question head-on. She added, “I’m a functioning adult. I’ve managed this just fine, and I’ve never walked around smelling.”
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Dax then became curious about Cynthia’s hygiene practices. When he asked whether she places the toilet paper on the tips of her fingernails, she responded that she uses the “pads of the fingers.”
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He also asked the 37-year-old whether she feels a “little tickle of the nails on the crack,” to which she countered, “No because the tissue is there!”
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Inspired by Wicked’s Elphaba
Erivo’s striking nails are not just a fashion statement; they are part of her dedication to her role as Elphaba in Wicked. She explained that the nails help her embody the character’s otherworldly essence, adding a personal and artistic touch to her portrayal.
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Calling Out Insensitive Questions
The moment highlighted the fine line between playful curiosity and invasive questioning. While Shepard’s approach might have been intended as lighthearted, many felt the question crossed a boundary.
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Erivo’s response not only defended her choices but also served as a broader call for respect when addressing celebrities. “There’s a way to be curious without being disrespectful,” one fan commented online.
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Fans React
Social media erupted with support for Erivo’s classy clap-back.
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Some fans, however, defended Shepard, saying his humor was simply meant to address a common curiosity. “It’s not like anyone thinks she doesn’t know how to handle her hygiene. It was a joke,” one fan argued.
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Balancing Humor and Respect
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about how humor can demystify celebrity quirks while still maintaining respect. While celebrities often face unusual or personal questions, moments like this highlight the importance of acknowledging boundaries and treating them as individuals first.
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Cynthia Erivo’s Poise Shines Through
Ultimately, Cynthia Erivo’s response underscored her grace and intelligence. By addressing the question directly, she not only defended her choices but also used the opportunity to call out the insensitivity of such questions.
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As fans eagerly await her performance as Elphaba in Wicked, this moment has solidified Erivo’s reputation as a true class act, both on and off the screen.
