1. Hugh Jackman
Hugh Jackman, known for his portrayal of Wolverine in the X-Men film series, is equally celebrated for his stage performances. Before becoming a Hollywood megastar, Jackman dazzled audiences with his theater work. His role in The Boy from Oz on Broadway, where he played Australian singer-songwriter Peter Allen, earned him a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical. Jackman’s magnetic stage presence coco_koma and dynamic vocal performances solidified his reputation as a true triple threat. He continues to return to Broadway, most recently starring in the 2022 revival of The Music Man.
2. Audra McDonald
Though primarily known for her extensive theater career, Audra McDonald has graced both the stage and the screen. Her Broadway roles in productions like Porgy and Bess, Ragtime, and Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill have earned her six Tony Awards—the most of any performer. McDonald’s seamless transition to television and film, including her work on Private Practice and The Gilded Age, demonstrates her versatility. However, Broadway remains her home, where she continues to deliver powerhouse performances.
3. Daniel Radcliffe
After achieving global fame as Harry Potter, Daniel Radcliffe sought to reinvent himself as a versatile actor. He made his Broadway debut in Equus, a psychological drama that required him to step far outside his comfort zone. Radcliffe’s performance earned critical acclaim, proving his range as a performer. He later showcased his comedic and musical talents in How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, solidifying his place as a Broadway star.
4. Bette Midler
Bette Midler, the iconic singer and actress, has had a storied career on both screen and stage. Her Broadway appearances include her Tony Award-winning performance in Hello, Dolly!, where she brought warmth, humor, and star power to the role of Dolly Levi. Midler’s electric stage presence and impeccable comedic timing have made her a Broadway legend.
5. Neil Patrick Harris
Neil Patrick Harris is no stranger to the stage. While his television roles, especially as Barney Stinson in How I Met Your Mother, made him a household name, his Broadway work showcases his remarkable range. Harris’s performance in Hedwig and the Angry Inch earned him a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical. His fearless portrayal of the genderqueer rock singer Hedwig was both daring and unforgettable, cementing his status as a Broadway heavyweight.
6. Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo’s rise to stardom began on the stage. Her role as Celie in the 2015 Broadway revival of The Color Purple earned her a Tony Award, as well as a Grammy and an Emmy, completing her path to an EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony) contender. Erivo has since transitioned to a successful film career, with standout performances in Harriet and Widows, but her heart remains rooted in the theater.
7. Idina Menzel
Best known as the voice of Elsa in Disney’s Frozen, Idina Menzel’s Broadway credentials are unparalleled. She originated the role of Elphaba in Wicked, a performance that earned her a Tony Award and legions of devoted fans. Menzel’s stage work, including her role in Rent, has solidified her as one of the most celebrated performers in modern musical theater.
8. Denzel Washington
Denzel Washington, one of Hollywood’s most revered actors, has repeatedly returned to Broadway to showcase his dramatic chops. His performances in Fences and A Raisin in the Sun earned him critical acclaim, with Fences later adapted into an Oscar-winning film he directed and starred in. Washington’s commanding stage presence and nuanced performances have made him a Broadway force to be reckoned with.
9. Lin-Manuel Miranda
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s name is synonymous with modern Broadway excellence. While he gained fame through his stage work, his transition to screen projects such as Hamilton on Disney+ and In the Heights has expanded his influence. Miranda’s performances in his own creations, particularly the titular role in Hamilton, have earned him numerous accolades, including a Pulitzer Prize and multiple Tony Awards.
10. Lea Michele
Lea Michele rose to fame as Rachel Berry on the television show Glee, but her roots lie in theater. She made her Broadway debut in Les Misérables as a child and later starred in Spring Awakening. Michele’s return to Broadway in Funny Girl as Fanny Brice has been widely praised, highlighting her vocal prowess and ability to command the stage.
11. Jake Gyllenhaal
Jake Gyllenhaal has proven himself to be as compelling on stage as he is on screen. His performance in Sunday in the Park with George showcased his vocal abilities and deep emotional range. Gyllenhaal’s dedication to his craft and willingness to take on challenging roles have made him a respected figure in the Broadway community.
12. Sara Bareilles
Sara Bareilles, a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, successfully made the leap to Broadway with her musical Waitress. Not only did she compose the music and lyrics for the show, but she also stepped into the lead role of Jenna, earning widespread acclaim for her heartfelt performance. Bareilles continues to be a vital presence in both the music and theater worlds.
13. Kerry Washington
Kerry Washington, celebrated for her role as Olivia Pope in Scandal, made a stunning Broadway debut in American Son. Her powerful performance as a mother grappling with racial injustice drew rave reviews and underscored her dramatic range. Washington’s commitment to meaningful, socially relevant stories has made her a standout on stage.
14. Patti LuPone
Patti LuPone is a Broadway icon whose work has also crossed over into film and television. Her roles in Evita and Gypsy have earned her Tony Awards and cemented her status as one of the greatest performers in theater history. LuPone’s passion for the stage is evident in every performance, inspiring generations of aspiring actors.
15. Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga’s star power and theatricality made her a natural fit for Broadway, though she has yet to make her official debut. However, her performance in A Star is Born and her live concert tours demonstrate the kind of presence that would undoubtedly shine on the Great White Way. Fans eagerly await the day she takes the stage.
Conclusion
Broadway has provided a platform for countless celebrities to prove their mettle and connect with audiences on a deeper level. The transition from screen to stage is no small feat, requiring a different set of skills and a relentless commitment to live performance. These stars have not only conquered the challenges of Broadway but have also enriched its legacy with their talent and star power. As more celebrities continue to embrace the stage, Broadway’s future remains as bright as its lights.
