Broadway and Television Icon Gavin Creel Passes Away at 48
Gavin Creel, the celebrated television and Broadway star, has tragically passed away at the age of 48 after battling a “rare and aggressive” form of cancer. His publicist confirmed the news, highlighting Creel’s significant impact on the performing arts community.
Creel was renowned for his performances in iconic stage productions, including his Tony Award-winning role in Hello Dolly! alongside Bette Midler in 2017, where he portrayed Cornelius Hackl. Midler expressed her sorrow, referring to Creel as a “radiant actor,” lamenting, “What a loss.”
In addition to his triumphs on Broadway, Creel garnered acclaim in the West End, earning an Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical for his portrayal of Elder Price in The Book of Mormon in 2014, a role he reprised on Broadway.
Reflections on his legacy poured in, with fellow performer Hannah Waddingham stating she was “shaken to my core” by the news of Creel’s passing. She emphasized the disbelief surrounding the loss, describing him as the “absolute real deal” with “talent pouring out of every pore.”
Lin-Manuel Miranda, who cast Creel in an early workshop of Hamilton, paid tribute to his charisma and talent, recalling how he captivated audiences even in the project’s infancy. Miranda expressed deep sympathy for Creel’s family and friends.
Creel’s Broadway journey began with his role as Jimmy Smith in the revival of Thoroughly Modern Millie in 2002, which earned him his first Tony nomination. Fellow actress Sutton Foster honored him by stating, “My sweet friend. I will love you forever.”
His illustrious career also included performances in Hair, the West End production of Mary Poppins, and the musical Waitress. Creel’s television appearances featured roles in Ryan Murphy’s American Horror Stories and collaborations with Julie Andrews in family favorites Eloise at the Plaza and Eloise at Christmastime.
A passionate advocate for marriage equality, Creel co-founded Broadway Impact to mobilize the theater community in support of this cause. He was originally from Findlay, Ohio, and graduated from the University of Michigan School of Music.
In remembrance of his remarkable life and contributions to the arts, a private family gathering will be held, alongside a celebration of his life for the theater community at a later date. Creel’s legacy as a beloved artist will undoubtedly endure in the hearts of his fans and colleagues.
