Gavin Creel, a celebrated veteran of Broadway known for his standout performances in productions like “Hello, Dolly!”—for which he received a Tony Award—passed away on Monday from a rare and aggressive type of cancer called metastatic melanotic peripheral nerve sheath sarcoma. He was 48 years old. Publicist Matt Polk confirmed that Creel died at his home in Manhattan, following a diagnosis he received in July 2024.
Raised in Findlay, Ohio, Creel graduated from the University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre & Dance. He honed his craft through regional theater and touring performances before captivating audiences in his breakthrough role as Jimmy Smith in the Broadway production of “Thoroughly Modern Millie,” opposite fellow newcomer Sutton Foster. His talent extended to iconic shows, including performing as Jean-Michel in the 2004 revival of “La Cage Aux Folles” and returning to Broadway in 2009 as Claude Hooper Bukowski in the Public Theater’s revival of “Hair.”
Lin-Manuel Miranda, the mastermind behind “Hamilton,” fondly remembered Creel as his very first King George III during the show’s early workshops. He praised Creel’s magnetic charisma, saying, “He wrapped the audience around his finger with nothing but a Burger King crown and his mind-blowing charisma and talent. He is so loved, and it is unimaginable that he’s no longer with us.”
Creel dazzled audiences not just in traditional musicals but also in contemporary pieces, such as his portrayal of Dr. Pomatter in Sara Bareilles’ beloved musical “Waitress” on Broadway in 2019 and in the West End in 2020. His performance in “The Book of Mormon” earned him an Olivier Award, showcasing his versatile talent.
In 2016, he portrayed Steven Kodaly in the production of “She Loves Me” at Studio 54. The following year, he starred as Cornelius Hackl alongside Broadway legends Bette Midler and David Hyde Pierce in the successful revival of “Hello, Dolly!” directed by Jerry Zaks, which garnered widespread acclaim.
Critics recognized Creel’s exceptional talent; Associated Press critic Michael Kuchwara described him as possessing a “powerhouse voice” while also bringing “a sweet-tempered poignancy” to his roles. He characterized Creel’s portrayal of Claude in “Hair” as filled with assurance and depth, capturing the complexity of the character’s back story.
Beyond the stage, Creel was an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and played a crucial role in promoting the federal Marriage Equality Act. Alongside friends Rory O’Malley and Jenny Kanelos, he co-founded the nonprofit organization Broadway Impact, aimed at creating positive social change within the theater community.
His talents also extended to film, where he appeared as the singing waiter Bill in the movies “Eloise at the Plaza” and “Eloise at Christmastime,” featuring Julie Andrews. More recently, he was cast in Ryan Murphy’s miniseries “American Horror Stories” alongside Matt Bomer and filmed a solo concert for PBS’s “Stars Onstage at Westport Country Playhouse” in 2022.
In a significant return to the stage that year, Creel participated in the off-Broadway concert production of Sondheim and James Lapine’s “Into the Woods,” playing both Cinderella’s Prince and the Wolf. The production eventually moved to Broadway, receiving critical acclaim and a Tony nomination for Best Revival of a Musical.
Gavin Creel is survived by his mother, Nancy Clemens Creel; his father, James William Creel; his sisters, Heather Elise Creel and Allyson Jo Creel; and his partner, Alex Temple Ward.
