Lindsay Mendez praised Cynthia Erivo's portrayal of Elphaba in 'Wicked: For Good' in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. Mendez starred as the witchy character on Broadway, while Erivo portrays Elphaba in 'Wicked' and its follow-up film.

Cynthia Erivo has provided some clarity on one of the more unexpected talking points of Wicked For Good – Elphaba’s so-called “*** cardigan”.

For Good may have divided the internet, but for actress Cynthia Erivo, the outfit had a meaningful symbolism. “The idea was to shoot the song with all of her armor on, with the hat and the coat and the cape.

Cynthia Erivo Is grateful for 'Wicked' success with Ariana Grande and Jon M. Chu, but will return to the theater next in Kip Williams' 'Dracula.'

The Emmy, Grammy and Tony winner is currently in Oscar contention, for the second year in a row, for her portrayal of Elphaba, aka the Wicked Witch of the West, opposite Ariana Grande.

The 'Wicked' movies are known for their resplendent costuming, so it was a surprise when an attention-grabbing Elphaba look went viral.