Gavin Creel, a renowned TV and Broadway star, passed away at 48 due to a rare and aggressive cancer, his publicist Matt Polk announced.
Creel’s impressive stage career included notable roles in Hello Dolly! alongside Bette Midler, for which he won a Tony Award in 2017, and The Book Of Mormon, earning him an Olivier Award in 2014.
Bette Midler paid tribute to Creel on Instagram, saying, “He was fantastic. I can’t believe he’s gone. What a loss.” Hannah Waddingham described herself as “shaken to my core,” adding, “The absolute real deal, talent pouring out of every pore. I’m heartbroken you’ve gone Gavin.”
Lin-Manuel Miranda, who cast Creel as King George III in early workshops of Hamilton, remembered him fondly. “Gavin Creel was our first King… He wrapped the audience around his finger with nothing but a Burger King crown and his mind-blowing charisma and talent.”
Idina Menzel, Josh Gad, and Sutton Foster also shared tributes on social media. Foster, who worked with Creel in Thoroughly Modern Millie, said, “My sweet friend. I will love you forever.”
Creel’s extensive career included roles in Thoroughly Modern Millie, Hair, Mary Poppins, Waitress, and TV appearances in American Horror Stories and Eloise At The Plaza.
He co-founded Broadway Impact, advocating for marriage equality. A private family gathering and a celebration of his life for the theatre community are planned.
Born in Findlay, Ohio, Creel graduated from the University of Michigan School of Music. His publicist announced that details for the celebration of life will be shared at a later date.
