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Lithgow Shatters Tony Record at 80!
8 Jun
Summary
- John Lithgow set a record for the longest span between Tony wins.
- At 80, he's the oldest male actor to win a Tony Award.
- He also won Tonys in three different acting categories.
John Lithgow achieved a historic milestone at the 2026 Tony Awards on June 7, 2026, securing the Best Leading Actor in a Play award. This victory marks the third Tony of his career and extends the span between his first win in 1973 to a record-breaking 53 years.
At 80 years old, Lithgow also became the oldest male actor to receive a Tony Award, surpassing the previous record held by Roy Dotrice. His achievement is further distinguished by being one of only four performers in Broadway history to win Tony Awards across three distinct acting categories.
Lithgow's wife, Mary Yeager, a retired UCLA professor of business and economic history, was present to support him. He dedicated his latest award to her, acknowledging her crucial support during the demanding two years of bringing the play 'Roald Dahl' to Broadway.
The couple, married for 43 years, met in 1980 through a blind lunch date. Lithgow humorously describes them as an "unlikely couple" due to their contrasting professions but emphasizes their enduring compatibility and deep affection.
