The 78th Annual Tony Awards, held on June 8, 2025, at Radio City Music Hall in New York City, was a night of historic wins and unforgettable performances. At the heart of the evening’s triumphs was Darren Criss, whose starring role in Maybe Happy Ending not only earned him his first Tony Award but also helped the musical secure six prestigious awards, including Best Musical. Here’s a look at why Criss and Maybe Happy Ending dominated the 2025 Tony Awards and why this Broadway gem is a must-see.
A Breakthrough Night for Darren Criss
Darren Criss, widely known for his role as Blaine Anderson on Glee and his Emmy-winning performance in The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story, cemented his status as a Broadway powerhouse. Criss won the Tony Award for Best Leading Actor in a Musical for his portrayal of Oliver, a gentle and introspective helper bot in Maybe Happy Ending. His hyper-charming and precise performance captivated audiences and critics alike, earning him praise for bringing depth to a futuristic yet deeply human character.
In his acceptance speech, Criss expressed pride in being part of a “notably diverse and exquisite” Broadway season. He also gave a heartfelt shout-out to his co-star Helen J. Shen, calling her “one of the best leading actresses in a musical this season.” This win marked Criss’s first Tony Award, adding to his growing list of accolades and bringing him halfway to EGOT status.
Criss didn’t just shine as an actor; he also served as a producer for Maybe Happy Ending, a role that earned him a second Tony when the show won Best Musical. His multifaceted involvement underscores his deep commitment to the project and to Broadway’s vibrant future.
Maybe Happy Ending: A Sci-Fi Romance That Won Broadway’s Heart
Maybe Happy Ending, written by Will Aronson and Hue Park, is a poignant musical set in a near-futuristic Seoul, South Korea. The story follows two obsolete helper robots, Oliver (Criss) and Claire (Helen J. Shen), who form an unexpected friendship and embark on a road trip to find meaning as their shelf lives near their end. Blending themes of love, loneliness, and the search for purpose, the show resonated with audiences for its emotional depth and innovative storytelling.
The musical, directed by Michael Arden, who won the Tony for Best Direction of a Musical, faced long odds before its Broadway debut. Initially struggling at the box office, it gained momentum through word-of-mouth and rave reviews, ultimately becoming a commercial and critical success. The show’s six Tony wins included Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical, Best Original Score, Best Scenic Design of a Musical, and Best Direction of a Musical, making it the night’s biggest winner.
A standout moment of the Tony Awards was Criss and Shen’s performance of “Never Fly Away,” which showcased the musical’s tender and futuristic charm. The production’s South Korean roots also made history, as Maybe Happy Ending became the first original South Korean musical to win Best Musical, a milestone celebrated widely in South Korea and beyond.
Why Maybe Happy Ending Stood Out
Maybe Happy Ending competed against strong contenders like Buena Vista Social Club and Death Becomes Her, each with 10 nominations. Yet, its unique blend of sci-fi and romance, coupled with its universal themes, set it apart. The musical’s creative team, including Broadway newcomers Aronson and Park, brought fresh perspectives, while Arden’s direction elevated the production to new heights.
Helen J. Shen’s Broadway debut as Claire was another highlight, with her curious and heartfelt performance earning widespread acclaim. The chemistry between Shen and Criss brought the robot romance to life, making their journey both relatable and moving.
The show’s cultural significance also cannot be overstated. Its Korean elements, such as references to Jeju Island and hwabun (a plant pot), were preserved in the Broadway adaptation, earning praise for authenticity. A 10th-anniversary revival of the original Korean-language version is set to open in Seoul in October 2025, further cementing its global impact.
Darren Criss’s Broadway Journey
Criss is no stranger to the Broadway stage. Before Maybe Happy Ending, he starred in a 2022 revival of David Mamet’s American Buffalo alongside Laurence Fishburne and Sam Rockwell, earning praise for holding his own against theater heavyweights. His earlier Broadway credits include How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (2012) and Hedwig and the Angry Inch (2015), showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Criss’s passion for theater extends beyond acting. His work as a producer on Maybe Happy Ending reflects his dedication to nurturing new stories. During the Tony Awards’ pre-ceremony, “Act One,” Criss co-hosted alongside Renée Elise Goldsberry, charming audiences with his wit and enthusiasm.
A Historic Broadway Season
The 2024-2025 Broadway season was one for the record books, grossing $1.89 billion and drawing 14.7 million attendees, signaling a robust post-pandemic recovery. Maybe Happy Ending’s success was part of a diverse and vibrant season that included standout performances from Nicole Scherzinger (Sunset Boulevard), Cole Escola (Oh, Mary!), and Sarah Snook (The Picture of Dorian Gray).
Hosted by Tony winner Cynthia Erivo, the 2025 Tony Awards celebrated Broadway’s resilience and creativity. The ceremony featured performances from Sunset Boulevard, Maybe Happy Ending, and a special reunion of the original Hamilton cast, marking the musical’s 10th anniversary.
What’s Next for Darren Criss and Maybe Happy Ending?
With its Tony wins, Maybe Happy Ending is poised for a bright future. The awards are likely to boost ticket sales, helping the $16 million production recoup its capitalization costs. Fans are also eager to see what’s next for Criss, whose star continues to rise in both theater and television.
Offstage, Criss’s personal life remains a point of interest. He married Mia Swier in 2019, and the couple welcomed their first child in 2022. While Criss keeps his family life private, his wife’s support has been a constant during his busy career.
Why You Should See Maybe Happy Ending
Maybe Happy Ending is more than a musical; it’s a testament to the power of storytelling and the universal quest for connection. Whether you’re a longtime Darren Criss fan, a Glee enthusiast, or simply a lover of innovative theater, this show delivers. Its blend of heart, humor, and futuristic flair makes it a standout in a crowded Broadway season.
Tickets for Maybe Happy Ending are available through official Broadway channels, and with its recent Tony wins, demand is high. Don’t miss the chance to see this history-making musical live at the Belasco Theatre.
