Gavin Creel, American actor and singer

Gavin James Creel, born on April 18, 1976, is an American actor, singer, and songwriter who has captivated audiences globally with his exceptional talent, primarily in the vibrant world of musical theater. Known for his powerful vocals, charismatic stage presence, and versatility, Creel has established himself as a prominent figure on both Broadway and London's West End, earning critical acclaim and prestigious awards throughout his dynamic career.

A Star's Rise: Early Broadway Triumphs

The dawn of Gavin Creel's illustrious Broadway career began in 2002 when he made a memorable debut in the leading role of Jimmy Smith in Thoroughly Modern Millie. His performance in this Tony Award-winning musical garnered him his first Tony Award nomination, immediately marking him as a talent to watch in the theatrical landscape. This pivotal role set the stage for a series of compelling performances that would solidify his reputation.

His impressive stage presence continued to captivate audiences when he took on the pivotal role of Claude in the critically acclaimed 2009 Broadway revival of Hair. This iconic rock musical, celebrated for its counter-culture themes and timeless music, saw Creel deliver another impactful performance, earning him a second Tony Award nomination and showcasing his versatility across different musical genres and character types.

Defining Roles and International Acclaim

Elder Price in The Book of Mormon: A Global Phenomenon

From 2012 to 2015, Creel became synonymous with the energetic and comedic Elder Price in the groundbreaking and highly successful musical, The Book of Mormon. This role propelled him to international recognition, particularly when he originated the character in the West End production in London. His exceptional portrayal earned him the coveted Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical, a significant honor in British theater, affirming his status as a leading man. He subsequently brought his celebrated performance to the US National Tour and later rejoined the Broadway cast, delighting audiences on both sides of the Atlantic with the show's witty satire and heartwarming story.

Tony Award Winner: Cornelius Hackl in Hello, Dolly!

A crowning achievement in his career arrived in 2017 when Gavin Creel received a coveted Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for his delightful portrayal of Cornelius Hackl in the critically acclaimed Broadway revival of Hello, Dolly! Starring opposite Bette Midler (and later Bernadette Peters), Creel's performance as the charming and naive store clerk was a standout, contributing significantly to the production's immense success and further cementing his place among Broadway's elite.

A Diverse Repertoire: More Stage and Screen Ventures

Beyond these iconic performances, Gavin Creel's extensive stage credits underscore his versatility and commitment to the craft. On Broadway, he has also graced the stage in notable productions such as La Cage aux Folles (2004), a revival of the classic musical, and in beloved revivals of She Loves Me (2016) and Waitress (2019), showcasing his ability to inhabit diverse characters in both comedic and dramatic roles. His talents have also extended to London's West End, where he appeared in Mary Poppins (2006) and a later run of Waitress (2020), demonstrating his continued appeal to international audiences. Earlier in his career, he also participated in US National Tours for popular musicals like Fame (1998) and Flashdance (2012).

While primarily celebrated for his theatrical prowess, Creel has also ventured into screen acting, though his roles in this medium are less extensive. His most notable screen appearances are as Bill in the family film Eloise at the Plaza and its charming Christmas-themed sequel, Eloise at Christmastime, offering a glimpse of his on-screen capabilities while reinforcing that the stage remains his primary artistic home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gavin Creel

What is Gavin Creel best known for?
Gavin Creel is most widely recognized for his acclaimed performances in musical theater, having starred in numerous Broadway and West End productions, and winning both a Tony Award and a Laurence Olivier Award for his work.
Which major awards has Gavin Creel won?
He won a Laurence Olivier Award for originating the role of Elder Price in the West End production of The Book of Mormon and a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for his performance as Cornelius Hackl in Broadway's Hello, Dolly!.
When did Gavin Creel make his Broadway debut?
Gavin Creel made his Broadway debut in 2002, playing the leading role of Jimmy in Thoroughly Modern Millie, a performance that earned him his first Tony Award nomination.
Has Gavin Creel performed outside of Broadway?
Yes, Creel has had significant roles in London's West End, including originating Elder Price in The Book of Mormon and starring in Mary Poppins and Waitress. He has also participated in US National Tours for shows like Fame and Flashdance.
Does Gavin Creel have any screen acting credits?
While his primary focus is theater, Gavin Creel's notable screen roles include playing Bill in the films Eloise at the Plaza and its Christmas-themed sequel, Eloise at Christmastime.