In 2022, following seventy years in showbiz, the musical theatre icon Julie Andrews was finally honored with an AFI Life Achievement Award. But while Julie and friends were celebrating with a televised Gala tribute show, one performance from the night, hearkening back to Julie’s early years on screen, completely stole the show — the moment Cynthia Erivo performed a chillingly perfect rendition of “Edelweiss.”
This clip has already rounded up over 1.9 million views on YouTube, and you don’t even have to be a theater fan to be moved by the magical moment!
Julie Andrews introduces Cynthia’s song with an insightful anecdote about “Edelweiss” being her favorite track from its 1965 mother-movie, “The Sound of Music,” even topping Andrews’ own hit, “My Favorite Things,” revealing, “What I love about it, and imagine, is that it speaks to everyone’s homeland. It’s so classically simple that it lasts forever.”
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Cue Cynthia Erivo in a feathered white ball gown upon the main stage, who instantly dazzles the auditorium with her striking voice. Tender, pristine and crystallized with vintage vibratos, Cynthia’s version of “Edelweiss” is a true ten-out-of-ten; evocative and wholesome, especially when sung with the grand tones of a live orchestra. Cynthia’s own tiny twists to the tune make her powerful rendition even more special, as Julie Andrews watches on spellbound from the audience.
If Cynthia’s clip only leaves you wanting more, you can watch the entire live event in the video above!
Cynthia broke into the mainstream last year after landing her lead role in the 2024 musical film, “Wicked,” opposite Ariana Grande. But while Ariana brought the A-List sparkle, the now-38-year-old South Londoner, Cynthia, brought over a decade of musical theatre expertise, following her years on screen and on stage at Broadway and London’s West End.
And her rendition of “Edelweiss” is winning hearts at every turn. As one YouTube viewer pointed out, “Not only did she sing this flawlessly and beautifully, her gown resembles an Edelweiss flower. Now that’s just the perfect cherry on top.”
Another commenter noted, “I grew up with this movie, but especially this song, as the daughter of Austrian immigrants. Its meaning is never lost. To see this imagery… a beautiful Black woman singing this song of freedom in today’s political climate. This was profound and powerful. What a performance.”
Cynthia wasn’t the only star to honour Julie Andrews that night. Carol Burnett, Steve Carell, Bo Derek, Jane Seymour, Gwen Stefani and a selection of Sound of Music cast members, amongst many more, featured in the event in June 2022. Gwen Stefani spoke on behalf of millions when she said, “I would not be me without the inspiration of Julie Andrews. You have brought so much joy into my life and to all of our lives. Thank you for your ‘sound of music.’”
Julie Andrews continues to captivate audiences, and her AFI Life Achievement Award celebration was a testament to her enduring legacy — highlighted by Cynthia Erivo’s unforgettable performance. For those eager to experience this magical moment and delve deeper into Julie’s remarkable journey, explore the links below.