Gavin Creel, Tony Award-Winning Broadway Star, Passes Away at 48
The Broadway community is mourning the loss of one of its brightest stars, Gavin Creel, who passed away on September 30, 2024, at the age of 48. Creel was diagnosed with a rare form of sarcoma, a metastatic melanotic peripheral nerve sheath tumor, in July of this year. Known for his powerful voice, remarkable stage presence, and activism, Creel’s death has left a deep void in the theater world.
A Star is Born: Gavin Creel’s Journey to Broadway
Gavin Creel was born on April 18, 1976, in Findlay, Ohio, and discovered his love for theater in high school, performing in his school’s production of Camelot. His passion for musical theater only grew, leading him to study at the University of Michigan’s prestigious School of Music, Theatre, and Dance.
In 2002, Creel made his Broadway debut in Thoroughly Modern Millie, playing the role of Jimmy Smith. His breakout performance earned him a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical, immediately cementing his place as one of Broadway’s top talents. His voice and charismatic stage presence made him a favorite among critics and audiences alike.
Rising to Fame: Tony and Olivier Award-Winning Roles
Creel’s career took off from there, with starring roles in both Broadway and West End productions. His second Tony Award nomination came in 2009, for his performance as Claude in the Broadway revival of Hair, a role that showcased his ability to convey depth and emotion.
His crowning achievement came in 2017 when he won the Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for his portrayal of Cornelius Hackl in Hello, Dolly!, opposite Bette Midler. The role not only earned him the coveted Tony but also made him a household name in theater circles.
In addition to his Tony win, Creel was recognized internationally, earning an Olivier Award in 2014 for his role as Elder Price in the West End production of The Book of Mormon.
An Advocate for Equality
Beyond his contributions on stage, Gavin Creel was a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. He co-founded the grassroots organization Broadway Impact with fellow actors Rory O’Malley and Jenny Kanelos. This organization played a significant role in the fight for marriage equality in the United States, working to mobilize the theater community in support of LGBTQ+ causes.
Creel often used his platform to speak out about the need for inclusivity in theater and beyond, standing as a symbol of hope for many. His activism was as impactful as his performances, making him a beloved figure in the Broadway community and beyond.
A Legacy of Kindness and Talent
Friends and colleagues remember Gavin Creel not only for his immense talent but also for his warm personality and generosity. Stars like Sutton Foster, Sara Bareilles, and Jane Krakowski, with whom Creel shared the stage, have shared heartfelt tributes, praising his kind spirit and devotion to his craft.
Creel’s dedication to his art was matched by his humility. Despite his success, he remained grounded and often spoke about the importance of living authentically. In a famous acceptance speech after his 2017 Tony win, he advised aspiring actors to “live an actual life” rather than getting lost in the digital world. He emphasized the value of community, collaboration, and human connection—principles that guided him both on and off stage.
Battling a Rare Disease
In July 2024, Creel was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer—metastatic melanotic peripheral nerve sheath sarcoma. Despite the rapid progression of the disease, Creel remained optimistic, continuing to work on several theater projects and mentoring young performers.
His passing at the age of 48 has left fans, friends, and the entire Broadway community in shock and mourning. There will be a private memorial service for his family, followed by a public celebration of life at a later date, allowing his fans and the theater community to pay their respects and honor his memory
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What was Gavin Creel’s cause of death?
A: Gavin Creel passed away from metastatic melanotic peripheral nerve sheath sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer.
Q: What was Gavin Creel’s most famous role?
A: Creel is best known for his Tony Award-winning role as Cornelius Hackl in Hello, Dolly!. He also earned acclaim for his performances in Hair and The Book of Mormon.
Q: Was Gavin Creel involved in activism?
A: Yes, Gavin Creel was a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and co-founded Broadway Impact, a grassroots organization that worked towards marriage equality.
Q: How old was Gavin Creel when he passed away?
A: Gavin Creel was 48 years old at the time of his death in September 2024.
Q: How did Gavin Creel contribute to the LGBTQ+ community?
A: Creel co-founded Broadway Impact and used his platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, particularly in the fight for marriage equality.
