Darren Criss Wins First-Ever Tony Award for “Maybe Happy Ending”

Darren Criss just hit a huge milestone in his already impressive career. The 38-year-old actor, known for his roles in Glee and American Horror Story, finally grabbed his first Tony Award—and it was a moment full of heart and gratitude.

A Night to Remember

At the 2025 Tony Awards held at Radio City Music Hall in New York City, Criss took home the trophy for Best Actor in a Musical. He won for playing Oliver, a robot character, in the original musical Maybe Happy Ending.

While the role might have been about a singing robot, Criss kept it very real during his acceptance speech. He opened by saying, “A lot of humans got me here.”

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The most touching part of his speech? His tribute to his wife, Mia.

• He called her “the real hero” behind the journey.
• He thanked her for allowing him to take a big leap with this role.
• He acknowledged her for handling the chaos at home, raising two young kids while he performed eight shows a week at the Belasco Theatre.

Then came the line that melted the room:
“You’re the very pedestal that upholds the shiny spinny bit in our lives.”
That’s pure Darren Criss—quirky, loving, and genuine.

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A Long Time Coming

This was Darren’s first nomination for a Tony Award, and he made it count. He’s been on Broadway before, but Maybe Happy Ending gave him the perfect moment to shine in a lead musical role. With his mix of acting chops, musical talent, and emotional depth, he truly brought Oliver to life.

And now, he finally has a Tony to show for it.