BTN News: In one of the more stunning moments of the 77th Annual Tony Awards, Jonathan Groff won his very first Tony Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical ever for his performance as Franklin Shepard in “Merrily We Roll Along.” The honor is a major milestone in Groff’s career, having previously been nominated for his performances in “Hamilton” and “Spring Awakening.
Groff has been universally lauded for his turn in Merrily We Roll Along; his win was cheered with gusto, as was his fellow co-star Daniel Radcliffe, who also took home his first Tony for How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. In his acceptance speech, Radcliffe thanked Groff, which led Groff to tears.
Looking back on his career path, Groff thought about his young obsession with the Tony Awards, which he recalled taping on VHS as a child. Coming from a conservative town in Pennsylvania, he had visions of joining the Broadway community. ASLThe exuberant Bruce put out a poignant acceptance, notably referencing his parents who were in attendance. To highlight the banner of groovy-human-friendliness he rides under (pictured above), Groff said, “My family knew the life-saving power of fanning the flame of a young person’s passion without judgment forever,” explaining his general nice-guy-itude as a credit to their open-heartedness.
This year was the 20th anniversary of Groff’s moving to New York – which prompted him to reflect on those early days when he got impatient waiting tables and dreamed about being on stage. His ‘Spring Awakening’ cast, he revealed, is who he first thanked, explaining that the show is what pushed him to come out publicly as gay at just 23. During this period he initiated lasting friendships including that of Lea Michele, his future co-star on the musical series “Glee.”
In the press room, Groff let us know that he hadn’t yet had a chance to call his Spring Awakening cast after his win, but he did know that they were watching as a collective from Lea Michele’s house. He also discussed a new reunion and accompanying documentary that reunited the cast, and praised the lasting impact that the show had for him both personally and professionally.
As Groff explained, “Merrily” brings to the forefront for all theatregoers to remember the hopes and dreams they had when they were younger (For him, it was “Spring Awakening.”) The theme of self-discovery and perseverance speaks to Groff, so the Tony on his mantle is all the more important.
Although Groff can’t commit to rejoining Michele on Broadway anytime soon, he’s in no way swearing off future possibilities. In the meantime, he will take in the glory that this moment in his career should provide, basking in making history as he and the community that raised him should.
