From Viral Sensation to Broadway Star
Darren Criss, at 37 years old, continues to shine both on Broadway and in intimate piano bars. “Life is a cabaret, right?” Criss remarks with a smile. Whether under the bright lights or behind a piano, Criss keeps the music alive.
A Hollywood Love Story
In Los Angeles, Criss can often be found at Tramp Stamp Granny’s, the piano bar he co-owns with his wife, Mia. “It’s a Hollywood love story,” he says. “She serves the drinks; I provide the soundtrack.”
Early Beginnings and Viral Fame
Criss’ journey to stardom began at the University of Michigan, where he found early fame portraying Harry Potter in A Very Potter Musical, a student production that became a viral sensation on YouTube in 2009. “That show was a turning point,” Criss reflects. “It set the stage for everything that followed.”
From YouTube to Prime Time
From viral stardom, Criss transitioned to television, landing a role on Glee as Blaine Anderson. “I auditioned alongside countless others,” he recalls. “I was fortunate to get the part.” Criss credits the show’s passionate fanbase—many of whom discovered him through A Very Potter Musical—for his success.
His performance of Katy Perry’s “Teenage Dream” on Glee became an iconic moment, propelling him further into the spotlight. Criss later showcased his dramatic range, earning an Emmy and Golden Globe for his role as Andrew Cunanan in The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story.
Back to Broadway
Now, Criss stars in Maybe Happy Ending, a hit Broadway musical where he plays Oliver, a disused robot who rediscovers love. Critics hail the production as “joyful, heartbreaking, and intelligent.” Criss muses on the show’s central theme: “Why do we pursue love, knowing it inevitably leads to loss?”
A Year of Blessings
The timing of the show feels serendipitous for Criss, who recently welcomed his second child. “This year feels blessed,” he says, reflecting on his growing family and professional milestones.
Overcoming Personal Loss
However, Criss’ path has not been without hardship. In 2020, he lost his father, Bill, to a heart condition, and in 2022, his brother, Chuck, passed away by suicide. “Loss teaches resilience,” Criss shares. “It’s not the darkness but the grace that helps us endure.”
Counting Lucky Stars
Through it all, Criss finds solace in music. “I count my lucky stars every day,” he says with a laugh. “There are just too many to count.”
Also Read: Werner Herzog: A Filmmaking Legend Who Won’t Stop
My Name is M Anas. I am a passionate blogger with a knack for sharing insights on technology, autos, Mobile Phone, etc. With a creative flair and a commitment to delivering engaging content, Anas aims to inspire and inform readers with unique perspectives and well-researched articles.
