This Sunday, the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon will feature approximately 50,000 runners who have dedicated months to training, each with their own unique motivations for taking on the challenging 26.2-mile course. Among them is Broadway actor Jordan Litz, who is making headlines not only for his participation but also for his ambitious plans immediately following the race.
Litz, who plays Fiyero in the popular musical “Wicked,” aims to complete the marathon and then perform in both scheduled shows without letting his audience in on his marathon effort. “And have them not know a thing. That’s the goal,” he stated confidently.
Running in support of Broadway Cares, Equity Fights AIDS, Litz expressed the sacrifices he’s made throughout his training, which include precious time away from his wife and daughter, as well as the physical toll that running has taken on his performances. “I’ve sacrificed my voice on stage at times from just being fatigued. I’ve sacrificed dance steps. I imagine that all of those feelings are going to come flooding at me as I’m coming up this finish line,” he shared.
Litz’s journey is also a personal one; he and his wife, both performers, met while working at Disney World. With a daughter already at home and a second child due in December, Litz finds motivation in both his family and his artistic community. His co-stars on Broadway have been offering constant support as he prepares for the marathon. “Ally, my Glenda, is just always so supportive. She’s always asking about how training’s going and commiserating with me and lifting me up if I need some words of encouragement,” he noted.
In his role as Fiyero, Litz describes the character’s journey as deeply impactful. He sees Fiyero’s character development—evolving from someone who is indifferent to becoming more compassionate—as one of the best arcs in the show. The emotion of the performance is particularly poignant for Litz, who connects the character’s growth to his own life experiences.
The marathon event will be aired live with pre-race coverage beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Channel 7, leading into the live coverage of the race at 8:00 a.m. This year’s event not only highlights the remarkable endurance of the runners but also showcases the inspiring stories woven into the fabric of the marathon, exemplified by Litz’s commitment to both his family and his craft.