An unforgettable night of celebration, tributes, and theatrical brilliance at Radio City Music Hall
Wicked star Cynthia Erivo lit up the stage as she hosted the 2025 Tony Awards in a spectacular evening celebrating Broadway’s finest, both rising stars and seasoned legends. The ceremony, held at New York’s iconic Radio City Music Hall, dazzled with stirring performances, heartfelt tributes, and a strong showing from British and international talent.
The night’s big wins were shared across stage veterans and newcomers alike. Sarah Snook, best known for her role in Succession, scooped Best Leading Actress in a Play, while comic actor Cole Escola triumphed in the male equivalent category. In musicals, Glee favourite Darren Criss claimed Best Leading Actor, and Nicole Scherzinger earned Best Leading Actress for her acclaimed performance as Norma Desmond in Sunset Boulevard.
Erivo, who won a Tony in 2016 for her powerhouse performance in The Colour Purple, brought both poise and humour to her hosting duties. The night began in classic Broadway fashion with a cheeky backstage sketch in which Erivo, still in her dressing gown, was asked if she’d prepared an opening number. “Still figuring it out,” she quipped, before embarking on a musical journey through the theatre, bumping into well-wishers and eventually Oprah Winfrey, who advised: “Just be yourself.”
That sentiment set the tone for the evening. Erivo opened the show with Sometimes All You Need Is a Song, an original piece written by an all-star team: Scott Wittman, Marc Shaiman, Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. Her monologue was a warm blend of praise and wit, highlighting rising stars like Sadie Sink and Louis McCartney, and cheekily dubbing George Clooney an “up-and-comer”.
Later, Erivo teamed up with singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles to deliver a tender rendition of Tomorrow from Annie in honour of theatre community members lost over the past year.
Presenters included big names from both stage and screen: Samuel L. Jackson and LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Ben Stiller, and of course, Oprah herself. In a cheeky nod to Winfrey’s television days, Erivo had her look under her seat, revealing a toy car. “You get a car!” she shouted, to roaring laughter. “I’ve been waiting all night to do that.”
Among the evening’s most celebrated productions was Maybe Happy Ending, a touching romantic comedy about two androids discovering love. The show bagged Best New Musical, Best Original Score, Best Scenic Design, and Best Direction of a Musical. Darren Criss, accepting his Best Actor award for the production, moved the audience with an emotional tribute to his wife and children. “This will always be award enough,” he said, voice trembling.
In the dramatic categories, Purpose, a nuanced drawing-room play by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, was named Best New Play. Sam Pinkleton took home Best Director of a Play for the critically lauded Oh, Mary!
In a memorable moment, the original cast of Hamilton reunited for a special 10th anniversary medley performance, prompting a standing ovation and a poignant reminder of Broadway’s cultural legacy.
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Francis Jue, who was named Best Featured Actor in a Play for his role in Yellow Face, used his acceptance speech to spotlight ongoing social challenges. “To those who don’t feel seen, to those who are being targeted in these authoritarian times – I see you,” he said firmly. “This community sees you.”
“Broadway is officially back,” Erivo declared mid-show, referencing the industry’s record-breaking box office year – a sentiment echoed throughout the night.
As the curtain fell, it was clear the 2025 Tony Awards had delivered more than just trophies – it was a night that affirmed Broadway’s enduring heart, soul, and spotlight on inclusion, artistry, and celebration.
