New York, NY — June 8, 2025 — Darren Criss achieved a career milestone at the 78th Annual Tony Awards, securing his first Tony for Best Actor in a Musical for his portrayal of Oliver in Maybe Happy Ending. The production, a poignant exploration of connection between two outdated helper robots in a futuristic Seoul, also clinched Best Musical among its six total wins, making it the most awarded show of the evening.
Criss, known for his Emmy-winning role in The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story, delivered an emotional acceptance speech, dedicating the honor to his wife, Mia Swier. He praised her unwavering support, stating, “She is my true hero and favorite person.” This heartfelt tribute underscored the personal significance of the award and highlighted the couple’s shared journey through the demanding world of theater.
Maybe Happy Ending, originally a South Korean musical by Will Aronson and Hue Park, made its Broadway debut in November 2024 at the Belasco Theatre. Directed by Michael Arden, the show captivated audiences with its unique narrative and innovative design. In addition to Best Musical and Best Actor, it earned accolades for Best Book of a Musical, Best Original Score, Best Scenic Design, and Best Direction of a Musical.
The musical’s success at the Tonys follows a strong performance during the awards season, including six Drama Desk Awards and multiple Outer Critics Circle Awards. Its blend of science fiction and emotional depth resonated with both critics and theatergoers, marking it as a standout production in a competitive year.
Criss’s portrayal of Oliver, a robot discovering the complexities of human emotion, has been lauded for its nuance and sincerity. His performance not only earned him his first Tony but also positions him halfway to achieving EGOT status, having previously won an Emmy.
The 78th Tony Awards, hosted by Cynthia Erivo at Radio City Music Hall, celebrated a year of remarkable theatrical achievements. Other notable winners included Nicole Scherzinger for Best Actress in a Musical (Sunset Blvd.) and Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’s Purpose for Best Play.
Criss is set to continue his role in Maybe Happy Ending through August 31, 2025, offering audiences the chance to experience his award-winning performance firsthand.