Gavin Creel, a popular figure in the Broadway play scene, tragically passed away at the age of 48 years old on September 30, 2024. The cause of death was an aggressive rare form of cancer called metastatic melanotic peripheral nerve sheath sarcoma, which is a rare form of cancer that affects the spinal cord and the nerve system in your body.
Creel was diagnosed with the disease recently in July of 2024, and passed away at his home in Manhattan months later.Creel was raised in Finlay, Ohio and graduated from the 1998 class of the University of Michigan’s school of music.
He played a series of minor roles early in his career before landing a role in the Broadway production ‘Thoroughly Modern Millie’. He was known for his prowess in the revival of the ‘golden age Broadway musical’, but at the same time had versatility in his craft. Creel had been recognized for his talent multiple times during his career, as he received a Tony Award for his performance in the play ‘Hello, Dolly!’ back in June of 2017, and was nominated for other awards for his roles during his career.
Bette Midler a co-star of Creel’s in ‘Hello, Dolly!’ made a post on ‘X’ highlighting Creel’s exceptional talent and character. Last week, Broadway theaters dimmed their lights to honor the life of Creel. Initially partial dimming was proposed, but an outcry amongst Broadway fans had brought complete dimming of the lights.
It is clear that Creel was adored by many, and this loss of talent will leave a hole in the Broadway landscape.
