Darren Criss, American actor, singer, and entrepreneur

Darren Everett Criss, born on February 5, 1987, is a remarkably versatile American artist widely recognized for his captivating work as an actor, singer, and songwriter. His career trajectory showcases a remarkable range, from the vibrant stages of musical theater to critically acclaimed television dramas and popular music releases.

The Early Rise: From Viral Musicals to Television Stardom

Criss first garnered significant attention as a founding member and co-owner of StarKid Productions, a dynamic musical theater company based in Chicago. This innovative group gained immense popularity through its witty, high-quality online musical parodies. It was here that Criss truly began to shine, famously playing the iconic lead role of Harry Potter in, and contributing extensively to the music and lyrics for, StarKid's viral sensation, A Very Potter Musical. This internet phenomenon cultivated a dedicated fanbase and showcased Criss's undeniable talent for both performance and composition.

His career reached new heights when he joined the immensely popular television series Glee (2010–2015). As Blaine Anderson, a charismatic and musically gifted student, Criss became a household name. His role on the show not only highlighted his exceptional vocal abilities but also contributed to significant cultural conversations surrounding LGBTQ+ representation on mainstream television, solidifying his status as a beloved performer.

Critical Acclaim and Award-Winning Performances

Beyond his musical theater and television breakthroughs, Criss delivered an unforgettable performance that earned him widespread critical acclaim. He starred as the enigmatic and chilling spree killer Andrew Cunanan in the second installment of Ryan Murphy's anthology series, The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story (2018). His nuanced portrayal of such a complex and real-life figure was lauded by critics, who praised his ability to delve deep into the character's psyche.

This powerful performance resulted in significant industry recognition, with Criss taking home both an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie and a prestigious Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Miniseries, or Television Film. These accolades underscored his profound dramatic capabilities, marking a pivotal moment in his career.

Diverse Artistic Endeavors: Broadway, Music, and Festivals

Criss's artistic journey extends to the illustrious stages of Broadway, where he has demonstrated his versatility as a performer. He notably took on leading roles as a replacement in two celebrated productions: the classic musical How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying and the groundbreaking rock musical Hedwig and the Angry Inch. His ability to seamlessly step into these iconic roles further cemented his reputation as a formidable stage actor.

In the realm of music, Criss has also released several musical albums, showcasing his individual artistry as a singer-songwriter. Expanding his musical footprint, he co-founded Elsie Fest in 2015, an innovative event proudly described as "New York City's first outdoor music festival celebrating tunes from the stage and screen." This festival provides a unique platform for fans to enjoy live performances of show tunes and cinematic scores, reflecting Criss's enduring passion for theatrical and screen music.

Furthermore, in March 2017, Criss debuted his indie pop band, Computer Games, alongside his brother Chuck Criss. This venture allowed him to explore a different musical sound and collaborate closely with his sibling, adding another dimension to his multifaceted career.

Frequently Asked Questions about Darren Criss

What is StarKid Productions?

StarKid Productions is a Chicago-based musical theater company co-founded by Darren Criss. It became famous for creating viral online musical parodies, most notably A Very Potter Musical, which showcased original music and humorous storytelling.

What major awards has Darren Criss won?

Darren Criss has won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie and a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Miniseries, or Television Film, both for his role as Andrew Cunanan in The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story.

What role made Darren Criss famous on television?

Darren Criss rose to widespread fame for his role as Blaine Anderson on the popular musical television series Glee, which aired from 2010 to 2015.

What is Elsie Fest?

Elsie Fest is an outdoor music festival co-founded by Darren Criss in 2015. It is known as "New York City's first outdoor music festival celebrating tunes from the stage and screen," offering performances of Broadway, movie, and television musical numbers.

Has Darren Criss performed on Broadway?

Yes, Darren Criss has performed on Broadway. He notably starred as a replacement in leading roles in both How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying and Hedwig and the Angry Inch.