The 78th Annual Tony Awards dazzled on June 8, 2025, as Radio City Music Hall in New York City welcomed a star-studded crowd for the first time since 2022. Hosted by Tony winner Cynthia Erivo, the event celebrated a record-breaking Broadway season that has reignited the Great White Way’s shine, drawing Hollywood A-listers, stage veterans, and fresh faces alike.
The 2024-2025 Broadway season marked the highest-grossing year in the history of the theater district, a remarkable comeback after the challenges faced in the immediate post-pandemic years. The evening’s energy was palpable, with a mix of excitement and glamour permeating the iconic venue as celebrities arrived on the red carpet amidst a light Manhattan drizzle.
Among the most notable attendees were Amal Clooney and George Clooney, whose presence added a touch of Hollywood prestige. They were joined by other familiar faces such as Sarah Snook, Adam Lambert, Audra McDonald, and Cole Escola. The gathering was a testament to Broadway’s broad appeal, attracting talent from film, television, and music.
Jonathan Groff, a standout figure at the ceremony, delivered a show-stopping performance from the musical Just In Time, where he portrays teen idol-turned-crooner Bobby Darin. Groff, who won a Tony in 2024 for Merrily We Roll Along, was among the nominees this year, underscoring his continued impact on the stage.
Lea Michele, known for her role as Fanny Brice in the 2022 revival of Funny Girl, took on the role of presenter, while Darren Criss co-hosted the pre-show alongside Renée Elise Goldsberry. Criss also earned a nomination for his work in Maybe Happy Ending, a production that tied with Death Becomes Her and Buena Vista Social Club for the most Tony nominations this year, each boasting ten nods.
The musical Buena Vista Social Club brought a unique cultural resonance to the awards. Based on a legendary Cuban musical collective formed in 1996, the show celebrates the legacy of veteran Cuban musicians whose careers spanned pre-revolutionary Cuba. The original 1997 album won a Grammy in 1998, and the 1999 documentary by Wim Wenders was nominated for an Academy Award in 2000. Now, its Broadway adaptation has garnered multiple Tony Awards, highlighting the enduring global influence of Cuban music and culture.
The red carpet itself was a spectacle, with photographers capturing an array of stunning arrivals. Audra McDonald, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Nicole Scherzinger, and Anthony Ramos were among those who dazzled the crowd. The event also saw appearances from Sarah Paulson, Bryan Cranston, Mia Farrow, Samuel L. Jackson with LaTanya Richardson Jackson, and Ariana DeBose, blending generations of talent.
Veteran performers such as Kristin Chenoweth, Bob Odenkirk, and Andrew Lloyd Webber mingled with newer stars like Sadie Sink and Charli D’Amelio, illustrating Broadway’s dynamic nature. The presence of fashion icons like Christian Siriano and Ashley Longshore added an extra layer of glamour to the evening.
Other notable attendees included Michelle Williams, Danielle Brooks, Zoe Deutch, and Sara Bareilles with Joe Tippett, whose musical contributions continue to enrich the Broadway scene. The evening also featured a strong contingent of behind-the-scenes creatives, including costume designer Paul Tazewell and directors like Lynne Meadow, underscoring the collaborative spirit of theater.
The Tony Awards 2025 not only celebrated artistic excellence but also reflected the resilience and vibrancy of live theater in New York City. As the curtain fell on this landmark event, it was clear that Broadway’s spotlight continues to shine brightly, fueled by a diverse and passionate community of artists and supporters.
