In 2022, after an incredible seventy years in show business, musical theater legend Julie Andrews finally received the prestigious AFI Life Achievement Award. To celebrate, a star-studded gala tribute was held, packed with touching speeches and dazzling performances. But one moment stood out above all the rest—when Cynthia Erivo took the stage and delivered a breathtaking performance of “Edelweiss.”
The performance was so moving that it quickly became a viral sensation. On YouTube alone, the clip has been watched over 1.9 million times! Even if you’re not a theater fan, it’s impossible not to feel something when you hear Cynthia’s stunning voice fill the room.
Before Cynthia sang, Julie Andrews shared a special memory about the song. She revealed that “Edelweiss” was actually her favorite song from The Sound of Music, even more than her own classic hit, “My Favorite Things.” She explained, “What I love about it, and imagine, is that it speaks to everyone’s homeland. It’s so classically simple that it lasts forever.”
Then, the lights dimmed, and Cynthia Erivo stepped onto the stage in a gorgeous white feathered ball gown. As soon as she started singing, the audience was completely mesmerized. Her voice was soft yet powerful, pure yet emotional, filled with beautiful vintage-style vibratos.
Accompanied by a live orchestra, she made the song feel both timeless and deeply personal. Cynthia even added a few unique touches of her own, making the song even more special. As she sang, the camera caught Julie Andrews watching in awe, completely captivated by the performance.
If Cynthia’s performance left you wanting more, you’re not alone! The entire event was filled with incredible moments, and you can watch the full show online.
Cynthia Erivo has been a rising star in the entertainment world, and her career reached new heights in 2024 when she landed a lead role in the highly anticipated Wicked movie alongside pop superstar Ariana Grande. While Ariana brought Hollywood glamour, Cynthia—who grew up in South London—brought over a decade of musical theater experience, having starred in both Broadway and London’s West End.
Her performance of “Edelweiss” has been winning hearts everywhere. One YouTube commenter pointed out a touching detail: “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 viewer shared a deeply personal reaction: “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 who paid tribute to Julie Andrews that night. The event was filled with famous faces, including Carol Burnett, Steve Carell, Bo Derek, Jane Seymour, and even Gwen Stefani. Many members of The Sound of Music cast also joined in the celebration. Gwen Stefani summed up what so many people feel about Julie, saying, “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 has been a beloved icon for generations, and the AFI Life Achievement Award ceremony was a beautiful tribute to her incredible career. But out of all the amazing moments, Cynthia Erivo’s unforgettable performance of “Edelweiss” will be remembered as one of the night’s most magical highlights. If you haven’t seen it yet, do yourself a favor and watch—it’s a moment of pure musical magic.
