Broadway Star Gavin Creel, Renowned for ‘Hello, Dolly!’ and ‘Waitress,’ Passes Away at 48

Gavin Creel, the acclaimed Tony-winning Broadway actor renowned for his roles in productions like “Hello, Dolly!”, “Waitress,” and “The Book of Mormon,” has sadly passed away at the age of 48. His representative, Matt Polk, confirmed the news, stating that Creel died at his Manhattan home on Monday, with his partner, Alex Temple Ward, by his side.

In an obituary shared by Polk, Creel was celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent on stage but also for his dedication to advocacy and community-building offstage. He infused his performances with unmatched energy and passion, leaving a lasting impression on audiences and colleagues alike.

Creel’s journey as a performer took a tragic turn in July 2024 when he was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of sarcoma. He sought treatment at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, demonstrating his tenacity both on and off the stage.

Originally from Findlay, Ohio, Creel made his Broadway debut in 2002, capturing hearts as Jimmy Smith in “Thoroughly Modern Millie.” His remarkable performance earned him his first Tony Award nomination for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical, setting the stage for a dazzling career.

Over the years, Creel became a celebrated figure in the theater community, showcasing his versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles across major Broadway and West End productions. His talents were further recognized in 2009 when he received his second Tony nomination for portraying Claude Hooper Bukowski in the revival of “Hair.” In 2014, he won an Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical for his role as Elder Price in “The Book of Mormon,” solidifying his status as a leading man in musical theater.

Creel’s crowning achievement came in 2017 when he won his first Tony Award for his portrayal of Cornelius Hackl in the highly praised revival of “Hello, Dolly!” He shared the stage with legends Bette Midler and David Hyde Pierce, and during his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude for his education at the University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre & Dance, which he credited with transforming his life.

The theater community is mourning the loss of Creel, with tributes pouring in from colleagues and friends. Hannah Waddingham, known for her role in “Ted Lasso” and her own extensive stage career, expressed her shock on Instagram, writing, “My heart is achingly heavy for you tonight, my friend. I’m so sad that you were taken so soon. I will never forget you as long as I breathe.”

Creel also shone in the role of Dr. Pomatter in Sara Bareilles’ “Waitress,” which he performed on Broadway in 2019 and later reprised in London’s West End in 2020. His close relationship with Bareilles was highlighted in his obituary, which referred to her as his “friend and kindred artistic spirit.” The two reunited in 2022 for a Broadway production of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s “Into the Woods,” further showcasing their artistic bond.

Creel’s vibrant spirit and generous nature will be deeply missed by all who knew him. The obituary concluded with heartfelt words, stating, “Gavin lived his life with joy, integrity, humor, wit, and grace.” His loss is felt profoundly within the artistic community and beyond.

He is survived by his mother, Nancy Clemens Creel; his father, James William Creel; his sisters; his partner, Ward; and his beloved dog, Nina. Gavin Creel’s legacy as a performer and a person will undoubtedly continue to inspire and resonate with those who were fortunate enough to know him and witness his incredible talent.