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Leslie Odom Jr. Honors Broadway's Lost Stars
8 Jun
Summary
- Leslie Odom Jr. performed 'Without You' during the In Memoriam segment.
- The ceremony honored artists lost in 2025 and 2026.
- Rent's 30th anniversary coincided with the 2026 Tony Awards.
The 79th annual Tony Awards, hosted by Pink, recently celebrated the best of Broadway at Radio City Music Hall. Actor Leslie Odom Jr. delivered a moving performance of "Without You" from the musical Rent during the ceremony's annual In Memoriam segment. This tribute honored notable figures from the theater community who passed away in 2025 and 2026.
The In Memoriam presentation featured a slideshow of industry greats, including actors Diane Keaton, Robert Redford, Robert Duvall, and producer Robert Fox. Playwright Tom Stoppard, director Mark Brokaw, actor Harris Yulin, performer Carmen de Lavallade, and Sondra Lee were also remembered. The segment concluded with a quote from Rent's creator Jonathan Larson. Odom's appearance marked a significant year, as he also reprised his Tony-winning role in Hamilton for its 10th-anniversary celebration. The Tony Awards also acknowledged the 30th anniversary of Rent, which premiered in 1996. "Without You" remains an emotional ballad reflecting themes of love and loss.
The Tony Awards are considered the highest honors in theater, recognizing achievements in acting, directing, and design. They are also one of the prestigious EGOT awards in show business.
