TV and Broadway star Gavin Creel has passed away at the age of 48 after battling a rare and aggressive form of cancer, his publicist Matt Polk confirmed.
Creel was best known for his performances on stage, including his Tony award-winning role in Hello Dolly! opposite Bette Midler in 2017. Midler herself paid tribute to Creel on Instagram, calling him a “radiant actor” and expressing her disbelief at his passing.
In addition to his work on Broadway, Creel also had success in the West End, winning an Olivier award for his role in The Book Of Mormon in 2014. His death has left many in the entertainment industry shocked and saddened, with British star Hannah Waddingham describing him as a “beautiful, smiley, talented man.”
Lin-Manuel Miranda, creator of Hamilton, remembered Creel as the first actor to play King George III in the musical’s early workshop stages, praising his charisma and talent. Other stars such as Idina Menzel and Josh Gad also shared their condolences on social media.
Creel’s career spanned both stage and screen, with notable roles in Thoroughly Modern Millie, Hair, and Waitress on Broadway, as well as appearances in TV shows and movies alongside stars like Julie Andrews. He was also a co-founder of Broadway Impact, a group advocating for marriage equality within the theatre community.
A private gathering for Creel’s family will be held, with a larger celebration of his life planned for the theatre community at a later date. His legacy as a talented and beloved performer will surely live on in the hearts of those who knew and admired him.
