We all know them as A-List movie and TV stars; we’ve seen them in countless movies portraying many different characters that have captivated our hearts. But did you know some of Hollywood’s biggest stars are also stars on the stage? Yes, we’re talking Broadway – and the fact that some movies and TV stars have taken to the stage and to the live audience. While some of these are more well-known as stage actors, some of these are sure to surprise you with their time on Broadway – and for their roles.
Scarlett Johansson
Hold the phone! We’re talking about Scarlett Johansson, the unstoppable force who’s not just Black Widow from Marvel’s Cinematic Universe but also a Tony Award winner! Wait, what? That’s right! While she’s battled aliens and espionage on the big screen in blockbuster hits like “Ghost in the Shell” and “Lost in Translation,” she’s also conquered Broadway.
She won the Tony for Best Featured Actress in 2010 for her electrifying performance in “A View From the Bridge.” It seems there’s no platform too big or too small for Scarlett to showcase her immense talent.
Andrew Garfield
Swinging from the skyscrapers of New York as Spider-Man to the illustrious stages of Broadway, Andrew Garfield is an A-lister who can literally do it all. He snagged a Tony Award in 2018 for his compelling role as Prior Walter in the revival of “Angels in America.” But wait, there’s more!
He had been Tony-nominated before, demonstrating that his acting prowess isn’t limited to superhero antics. So, whether he’s wearing a spandex suit or standing in a spotlight, Andrew Garfield proves he’s more than amazing; he’s extraordinarily versatile.
Carly Rae Jepsen
You probably remember Carly Rae Jepsen for her infectious pop anthems, but did you know she’s a Broadway darling, too? She enchanted audiences in 2014, stepping into the glass slippers of Ella in “Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella.” No “maybe” about it—she absolutely nailed it!
And if that wasn’t enough, she also showcased her acting skills in Fox’s production of “Grease: Live.” With her smooth transition from pop charts to script charts, Carly proves that she’s a multi-talented sensation you can’t ignore.
Bryan Cranston
From meth labs to Broadway tabs, Bryan Cranston’s range is nothing short of jaw-dropping. Best known as Walter White in “Breaking Bad,” he transitioned seamlessly into stage acting. His 2014 Broadway debut in “All the Way” was a smashing hit, scoring him a Tony Award for Best Actor.
Cranston didn’t stop there—he added another Tony to his shelf for his 2018 role in “Network.” Whether he’s dealing with criminal activities or theatrical audacities, Cranston’s compelling performances make him an undeniable kingpin of the acting world.
Amy Schumer
Who says comedians can’t do drama? Amy Schumer, our go-to gal for laughs, switched lanes to captivate Broadway audiences in 2017. Starring in “Meteor Shower,” she played the intriguing character of Corky and shared the stage with other big names like Keegan-Michael Key and Laura Benanti. What’s more, she was Tony-nominated for her performance.
It just goes to show that whether she’s making us laugh till we cry in her stand-up shows or mesmerizing us on the theatrical stage, Schumer is a versatile artist with more tricks up her sleeve than we might think.
Sean’ Diddy’ Combs
No, you’re not dreaming. The hip-hop mogul known as Puff Diddy (or just Diddy) took his talents from the recording studio to the Great White Way. Best known for hits like “I’ll Be Missing You” and a career in producing, Diddy surprised everyone when he stepped into the role of Walter Lee Younger in the 2004 revival of “A Raisin in the Sun.”
Critics may have had their doubts, but Diddy silenced them with a performance that earned largely positive reviews. It’s yet another reminder that Diddy’s talents are as multifaceted as his name changes.
Sarah Jessica Parker
Before she was the fashion icon Carrie Bradshaw, Sarah Jessica Parker was a Broadway baby. At the tender age of 11, she debuted in “The Innocents” back in 1976. This early stint was just the prologue to her career; she even played Annie three years later!
From early childhood to “Sex and the City” stardom, SJP has had New York City’s heartbeat pumping through her veins. While she’s now synonymous with Manolo Blahniks and cosmos, let’s not forget that her versatility started on the stage.
Usher
Cue the record scratch. Yes, you read it right. R&B sensation Usher graced Broadway with his slick moves and velvety vocals. While he’s dominated the music charts for decades, in 2006, he tackled the role of suave lawyer Billy Flynn in the classic musical “Chicago.”
Skeptics questioned the casting, but Usher proved his critics wrong, excelling in both song and dance. With this venture into Broadway, he showed the world that his talents aren’t confined to the recording studio; they’re just as dazzling under the stage lights.
Uma Thurman
Uma Thurman is not just the femme fatale from Quentin Tarantino movies; she’s also Broadway royalty. In 2017, she debuted in “The Parisian Woman,” portraying the complex character of Chloe. Plus, let’s not forget her appearance in the Broadway-themed TV show, “Smash,” in 2012.
With her versatile range and her daughter, Maya Hawke, also making waves in Hollywood, it’s safe to say that acting prowess runs in the family. Whether she’s brandishing a Hattori Hanzo sword or delivering a powerful monologue, Uma Thurman is a force to be reckoned with.
Jake Gyllenhaal
You’d think coming from a family of filmmakers, Jake Gyllenhaal might stick to the silver screen. Think again. In 2015, he made his Broadway debut in the romantic drama “Constellations,” shortly after starring in an off-Broadway production.
Known for his commitment to his craft, Gyllenhaal showed his range by venturing from the Hollywood hills to the Broadway stage. He’s a multi-dimensional actor, literally and figuratively, making the transition between cinema and theater look like a walk in the park—or a stroll on Broadway, if you will.
Christina Applegate
From sassy Kelly Bundy in “Married… with Children” to the naive and forgetful Samantha in “Samantha Who?,” Christina Applegate is no stranger to unforgettable TV roles. However, her talents shine beyond the small screen. In 2004, she made her Broadway debut in a revival of “Sweet Charity,” earning her a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress.
A freak accident—breaking her foot 20 minutes into the show—could have been a career-ender, but Applegate continued to prove her grit and versatility, elevating her status in the performing arts world.
Adam Driver
Before capturing the collective imagination as Kylo Ren in the latest “Star Wars” trilogy, Adam Driver was honing his skills on the stage. Making his Broadway debut in a 2010 production of “Mrs. Warren’s Profession,” he followed up with another play before heading to Hollywood.
After reaching stardom, he circled back to his first love, theater, with acclaimed performances in plays like “Burn This.” Driver’s journey showcases the symbiosis between screen and stage, proving that mastering one can elevate the other.
Melissa Benoist
Melissa Benoist became a household name through her roles in popular TV shows like “Glee” and “Supergirl.” However, her vocal prowess set her apart from her peers. In 2018, she took her talents to Broadway, starring in “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.”
Playing the lead role for a limited summer run, she stunned both critics and audiences with her incredible vocal range and acting ability. Benoist’s Broadway debut not only confirmed her as a multi-talented performer but also demonstrated how seamlessly she could transition between mediums.
Tom Hanks
Two-time Oscar winner Tom Hanks made his Broadway debut quite late in his illustrious career. In 2013, he took on the lead role in “Lucky Guy,” a play adapted from a screenplay. Initially turning down the film version, Hanks agreed to perform once it morphed into a stage production.
The star’s transition to Broadway was well-received, further cementing Hanks’s status as a versatile, universally adored actor. His presence brought an added layer of star power to the production, proving that a true artist knows no boundaries.
NeNe Leakes
Reality TV star NeNe Leakes from “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” made headlines with her transition to Broadway in 2014. Taking on the role of the Madame in “Cinderella,” she held her own on stage for three months. Leakes returned to Broadway as Matron in “Chicago” for a four-week stint.
Both roles revealed her overlooked acting abilities and raised eyebrows in the entertainment industry. It became clear that Leakes was more than just a reality TV persona; she was a performer with a knack for captivating live audiences.
Neil Patrick Harris
Neil Patrick Harris began his career as a lovable child prodigy in “Doogie Howser, MD.” A TV sensation from a young age, Harris later displayed a different facet of his talent in Broadway shows like “Cabaret” and “Sweeney Todd.” However, the true highlight of his stage career came in 2014 when he took on the leading role in “Hedwig and the Angry Inch.”
His performance was so impactful that he won a Tony Award for Best Leading Actor. This Broadway triumph confirmed that Harris was not just a one-hit TV wonder; he was a versatile talent deserving of attention in multiple entertainment realms.
Ashlee Simpson
Known primarily for her pop music career, Ashlee Simpson shocked many when she ventured into Broadway, landing the coveted role of Roxie Hart in the iconic musical “Chicago.” She not only held her own but also received rave reviews for her impressive performance.
Critics and audiences alike noted her vocal ability and stage presence, proving that she was far more than just a one-dimensional pop star. This successful Broadway stint also allowed her to showcase her acting skills, demonstrating that she had more layers as an entertainer than people had initially thought.
James Corden
Initially celebrated in the UK for his role in the sitcom “Gavin and Stacey,” James Corden entered the American consciousness in a big way with his Broadway role in “One Man, Two Guvnors” in 2012. His acting was so compelling that he won a Tony Award for Best Actor.
This performance was a game-changer for Corden, elevating his status in the US and laying the groundwork for his future role as the host of “The Late Late Show.” His Broadway debut served as a pivotal moment, introducing him to American audiences and showcasing his talent beyond comedic acting.
Jordin Sparks
Jordin Sparks, who became an instant star after winning “American Idol” at the tender age of 17, took her vocal talents to Broadway in 2010. She debuted in “In the Heights,” impressing theater aficionados with her strong voice and acting skills. Her most recent stage role came in 2019, starring in the musical “Waitress.”
These roles provided a new avenue for her talents and drew accolades from both critics and audiences. Not only did her Broadway endeavors confirm her as a diverse talent, but they also expanded her audience to include a broader range of entertainment consumers.
Ricky Martin
Before the days of “Livin’ La Vida Loca” or his Emmy-nominated role in “The Assassination of Gianni Versace,” Ricky Martin was a Broadway actor. He first displayed his acting chops in a 1996 production of “Les Misérables.” More than a decade later, he returned to Broadway in a 2012 revival of “Evita.”
Both stints demonstrated his remarkable versatility as an entertainer. Whether it’s singing, acting, or live performances, Martin has proven his ability to captivate audiences across various platforms, confirming that his talents are not confined to any single genre or medium.
Nick Jonas
Before the world knew him as one-third of the Jonas Brothers, Nick Jonas had already built a respectable career on Broadway. At just seven years old, Jonas was performing in esteemed shows like “Beauty and the Beast” and “Les Misérables.” The young star seemed destined for a lifetime in the theater, but pop stardom came calling.
After years of chart-topping hits and international tours with his brothers, Jonas returned to his first love: the stage. In 2012, he joined the Broadway cast of “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” showcasing his diversity as an artist and reconnecting with his theater roots.
Toni Braxton
A household name in the R&B genre, Toni Braxton is no stranger to accolades and awards, including multiple Grammys. She achieved another historic milestone when she became the first Black woman to star in a Disney Broadway production.
Cast as Belle in “Beauty and the Beast” in 1998, she dazzled audiences with her vocal prowess and emotional depth. After a hiatus from the theater world, Braxton returned to Broadway in 2014 in the musical “After Midnight,” proving that her talent transcends mediums and her artistry knows no bounds.
Emma Stone
Emma Stone has won hearts with her roles in film, especially her Oscar-winning performance in “La La Land.” But this versatile actress also has a passion for theater. She made her Broadway debut in 2014, portraying Sally Bowles in the iconic musical “Cabaret.”
Interestingly, Stone was the first choice for the role but had to drop out due to scheduling conflicts. Eventually, she returned as a replacement for Michelle Williams, making many believe that fate had a role in her Broadway journey.
Katharine McPhee
Katharine McPhee gained national attention as the runner-up on season five of “American Idol.” After that, she diversified her career with various TV roles, notably starring in the musical drama “Smash.”
But her Broadway debut didn’t come until 2018 when she landed the leading role of Jenna in “Waitress.” She reprised the role in subsequent years, proving that her musical talents could shine just as brightly on the stage as they do on screen.
Erika Jayne
Erika Jayne first caught the public’s attention in 2015 through her appearance on “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.” Her fame escalated due to her complicated personal life, but she sought a different narrative by stepping onto the Broadway stage.
In 2019, she was cast as Roxie Hart in “Chicago,” marking her Broadway debut. Unfortunately, her stage career was abruptly halted when theaters closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving audiences wondering what could have been.
Hugh Jackman
Hugh Jackman may be a household name due to his iconic role as Wolverine in the Marvel Universe, but his roots are deeply planted in the theater. He garnered critical acclaim early on in his career on stage, setting the stage for his future endeavors.
After achieving Hollywood fame, he returned to Broadway with a bang, starring in “The Boy From Oz” and winning a Tony Award for his portrayal of Peter Allen. This accolade wasn’t just a nod to his exceptional talent but also cemented his status as a versatile performer who could conquer both film and stage with equal finesse.
Keke Palmer
Best known for her roles on Nickelodeon and a slew of TV appearances, including “ER,” “Family Guy,” and “Grey’s Anatomy,” Keke Palmer already had a thriving career before stepping onto the Broadway stage.
But it was in 2014 when she was cast as Ella in “Cinderella,” that she not only made her Broadway debut but also made history as the first Black actress to land the starring role in the Disney musical. This historic casting further spotlighted her range as a performer and broke barriers for future generations.
Billie Joe Armstrong
As the frontman of punk rock band Green Day, Billie Joe Armstrong seems like an unlikely candidate for Broadway. Yet, when the band collaborated with director Michael Mayer for a musical adaptation of their album “American Idiot,” Armstrong found himself part of the cast.
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Playing the role of St. Jimmy in the 2011 run, he brought a unique rock energy to the stage. Though his participation was part-time due to his busy touring schedule, his presence was enough to sell out shows, demonstrating the universal appeal of his artistry.
Daniel Radcliffe
Forever immortalized as Harry Potter, Daniel Radcliffe has always had a soft spot for theater. He made his Broadway debut in plays like “How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying” and “Equus” as early as 2007.
Radcliffe has spoken passionately about his love for the stage in interviews and has been nominated for several theater awards. His latest project, “Merrily We Roll Along,” set to debut later in 2023, is highly anticipated and could be another feather in his versatile cap.
Meryl Streep
Arguably one of the greatest actresses of her generation, Meryl Streep has more than 200 awards to her name. However, her journey to stardom began on the stage, with her first role in a production of “Trelawny of the Wells.”
She continued to act in multiple Broadway productions throughout the late ’70s and early ’80s, honing her craft before taking Hollywood by storm. Even after achieving unprecedented success in film, her foundational experience in theater remains a vital part of her illustrious career.
Jeff Daniels
Jeff Daniels may be a familiar face on both the small and big screen, with his most recent credit being in 2021’s “American Rust,” but his acting roots go deeper. Daniels made his Broadway debut back in 1980 in “Fifth of July” and has continued to juggle stage roles while filming for Hollywood.
His versatility shines through his broad portfolio, from dramas to comedies. Daniels garnered particular attention for his portrayal of Atticus Finch in “To Kill a Mockingbird,” earning him a Tony nomination and reinforcing the depth and range of his acting skills.
Jeremy Jordan
While audiences may recognize Jeremy Jordan from TV shows like “Supergirl” and “Smash,” he’s also a prominent figure on the Broadway stage. Since his earliest Broadway role in 2009, Jordan has participated in over ten plays, including leading roles in “Bonnie and Clyde” and “Newsies,” the latter of which garnered him a Tony nomination.
Jordan’s robust career is a testament to his multifaceted talents, making him one of the most versatile and celebrated performers of his generation.
Zachary Levi
Zachary Levi gained mainstream attention with his roles in “Shazam!” and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” but he’s more than just a screen actor. Levi is also a capable singer who has showcased his musical talents on Broadway.
His roles in musicals like “She Loves Me” in 2016 and “First Date” in 2013 not only show his range as an actor but also as a vocalist. Levi received a Tony nomination for his work in “She Loves Me,” adding another feather to his already decorated cap.
John Lithgow
John Lithgow, a beloved figure in comedy TV and a recent Emmy winner for his role in “The Crown,” has a distinguished Broadway history dating back to 1973. His debut role was as Kenny in “The Changing Room,” and he’s been a stage regular since.
Over the years, Lithgow has received multiple Tony nominations, and his first role even won him the prestigious award. His most recent Broadway outing was in 2019, showcasing the actor’s continued passion for live theater.
Laurie Metcalf
Though Laurie Metcalf has won hearts on TV in sitcoms like “Roseanne” and “The Big Bang Theory,” her true love lies in theater. She has been candid about her preference for stage performances, where she feels her artistry thrives best.
Metcalf has garnered multiple Tony nominations and won two in consecutive years: Leading Actress for “Doll’s House Part 2” and Featured Actress in “Three Tall Women.” Her most recent Broadway role is in the 2023 production of “Grey House,” signaling her unflagging commitment to the stage.