Gavin Creel, a celebrated Broadway performer known for his Tony-winning role in “Hello, Dolly!” alongside Bette Midler, passed away on Monday at the age of 48 due to a rare and aggressive cancer. His publicist, Matt Polk, confirmed that Creel died from metastatic melanotic peripheral nerve sheath sarcoma at his home in Manhattan, a condition he was diagnosed with in July 2024.
Midler expressed her shock and sorrow on social media, describing Creel as fantastic and lamenting his loss. Idina Menzel also honored him on Instagram, referring to him as “an angel among the angels.”
Creel was renowned for his performances in classic Broadway revivals, but he also showcased his talent in contemporary productions, such as his role in Sara Bareilles’ musical “Waitress.” His accolades included an Olivier Award for “The Book of Mormon,” where he played the character Elder Price, captivating audiences during the show’s national tour and in London’s West End.
Raised in Findlay, Ohio, Creel graduated from the University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre & Dance in 1998. He gained prominence as Jimmy Smith in the Broadway production of “Thoroughly Modern Millie” before starring in various productions like Stephen Sondheim’s “Bounce” and the revival of “Hair.”
Critics praised Creel for his powerful vocal performances and emotional depth, particularly in roles that demanded complex backstories. In 2016, he starred in “She Loves Me,” and in 2017, he played Cornelius Hackl in the highly acclaimed revival of “Hello, Dolly!” for which he won a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical.
During his acceptance speech, Creel urged attendees to support scholarship funds, demonstrating his commitment to transforming lives through education. He was also a passionate advocate for marriage equality, co-founding the nonprofit organization Broadway Impact.
In addition to his stage work, Creel appeared on screen in the “Eloise” films and Ryan Murphy’s “American Horror Stories.” In 2022, he played multiple roles in an off-Broadway concert production of Sondheim’s “Into the Woods,” which later moved to Broadway and received a Tony nomination for Best Revival of a Musical.
Creel is survived by his parents, Nancy and James Creel; his sisters, Heather and Allyson; and his partner, Alex Temple Ward.