Tony Nominations 2025: Full List of Awards and How to Watch

Tony Nominations 2025

Since its start in 1947, the Tony Awards have stood as Broadway’s highest honor, celebrating the best in theatre. Every year, these awards highlight outstanding productions, performances, and technical achievements that shape New York’s vibrant stage scene. The Tony Nominations 2025 have captured the spotlight with a mix of fresh productions and seasoned favorites. From multiple nods for Buena Vista Social Club to standout performances by George Clooney and Audra McDonald, this year’s list reflects both new voices and theatrical legends.

As excitement builds for the 78th Annual Tony Awards, airing live from Radio City Music Hall on June 8, fans can gear up to watch the full celebration unfold on CBS and streaming via Paramount+. This post breaks down the complete list of nominees and provides key details on how to tune in.

Full List of 2025 Tony Nominations

The 2025 Tony Nominations showcase a rich blend of theatrical stories, powerful performances, and top-tier technical achievements. This year’s lineup includes a mix of groundbreaking new works and impressive revivals, reflecting the energy buzzing through Broadway stages right now. Let’s explore the big names, new talent, and creative teams making a mark this season.

Leading Productions and Their Impact

Three productions—Buena Vista Social Club, Death Becomes Her, and Maybe Happy Ending—dominate this year’s nominations, each racking up 10 nods. These shows are reshaping the 2025 theatre season in unique ways.

Buena Vista Social Club stands out with its vivid storytelling and vibrant musicality. Its fusion of Cuban rhythms and heartfelt narratives introduces audiences to rich cultural textures rarely spotlighted with such prominence on Broadway. This production also pushes boundaries with seamless multimedia elements, offering new layers to live performance.
Death Becomes Her blends dark humor with lush period design, highlighting a return to witty, character-driven storytelling. Its nomination haul underscores audiences’ appetite for complex narratives that combine drama and comedy with sharp social commentary.
Maybe Happy Ending is a fresh voice in musical theatre, presenting futuristic themes around technology and connection. Its inventive score and narrative reveal how Broadway is embracing stories that reflect modern anxieties and hopes, capturing hearts and nods alike.

Beyond these, shows like Purpose and The Hills of California push forward with daring dramaturgy and imaginative staging, signaling trends toward inclusivity and experimentation. Technological innovations, from immersive soundscapes to deceptive illusions seen especially in productions such as Stranger Things: The First Shadow, highlight a year where craft meets imagination at a new level.

Standout Performances and New Faces

The acting categories are a compelling mix of Broadway legends and rising stars. George Clooney’s nomination for Good Night, and Good Luck marks a notable crossover from film to stage, enriching the season’s star power with a deeply nuanced portrayal. Audra McDonald continues to solidify her record-breaking legacy, earning yet another nod that reflects her unwavering excellence and influence.

Jonathan Groff returns with a lead nomination for Just in Time, demonstrating his ability to captivate through both voice and presence. Newcomers like Mia Farrow in The Roommate bring fresh energy and poignant performances that resonate deeply with audiences and critics alike. Louis McCartney and Daniel Dae Kim also stand out, proving that Broadway is steadily opening doors for diverse talent and stories.

Highlights include:

George Clooney’s powerful, understated performance.
Audra McDonald breaking records and elevating every role.
Mia Farrow’s first Tony nomination, signaling a celebrated stage debut.
Jonathan Groff’s continued dominance in musical theatre.

This blend of experience and new blood not only refreshes the stage but inspires a wider audience to engage with theatre in meaningful ways.

Technical and Creative Excellence

The 2025 Tony Nominations honor more than acting and writing; they shine a spotlight on the unseen artistry behind theatre’s magic.

Choreography sees inventive work from Joshua Bergasse (Smash) and Trisha Brown (Operation Mincemeat), who bring dynamic movement that drives stories forward and electrifies the stage.
Scenic and Costume Design reflect bold creativity. Marsha Ginsberg’s scenic work on English and Brenda Abbandandolo’s costume designs for Good Night, and Good Luck mix traditional craftsmanship with innovative aesthetics. The technical marvels in lighting and sound design, like Natasha Chivers’ lighting for The Hills of California and Jonathan Deans’ intricate soundscapes for Buena Vista Social Club, envelop the audience in atmospheres both subtle and striking.
Orchestration and Musical Direction receive recognition for fresh interpretations and vibrant scores. Bruce Coughlin’s work on Floyd Collins and fresh musical ideas from Maybe Happy Ending show a strong commitment to pushing musical theatre beyond expected conventions.

Each nomination points to a deep respect for the skilled hands and inventive minds that sculpt a production’s world. The season’s awards reflect a theatre community that values craftsmanship and technological experimentation equally, championing those who elevate the art form beyond the obvious.

The 2025 Tony Nominations paint a picture of a Broadway season alive with stories that challenge, performances that captivate, and creative teams that innovate from behind the curtain. These nominations invite us to expect an awards ceremony as varied and vibrant as the theatre world itself.

Major Snubs and Surprising Omissions

Every awards season stirs excitement, but also debate—especially when beloved artists and popular productions miss out. The 2025 Tony Nominations were no exception. While some nominations thrilled fans, others raised eyebrows throughout the theatre community. This year’s list highlights not just who’s in, but also who wasn’t, revealing shifting tides in Broadway’s priorities and tastes.

Community and Celebrity Reactions

As the nominations rolled out, a mix of celebration and surprise echoed across Broadway. Actors, creators, and fans quickly shared their thoughts on social media and in interviews, giving a human voice to the highs and lows of the nomination announcements.

Louis McCartney, nominated for his role in The Hills of California, expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, “This nomination means the world to me. It’s proof that bold, new stories find space on Broadway—even when the stage feels crowded with heavy hitters.” His excitement captures the spirit of a season embracing fresh voices.
Mia Farrow, recognized for her performance in The Roommate, was visibly moved. She shared, “I honestly didn’t expect this recognition. Being part of this community is everything I hoped for, and to be counted among such talent is humbling.” Her nomination surprised many and became a joyful moment for fans witnessing her theatre debut at the Tonys.
Jonathan Groff, a returning nominee for Just in Time, acknowledged the tough competition this year. He commented, “Every year the bar rises. To be nominated alongside such incredible artists is an honor. This season’s mix of stories and careers makes for a rich celebration of theatre.” His response highlights respect for both veterans and newcomers.

At the same time, many talked openly about the surprising omissions. The absence of Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal from the nods for Othello caught the industry by surprise. Despite the play’s commercial success and critical buzz, neither received individual acting nominations. This sparked conversation about how star power does not always translate into awards recognition in today’s Tony landscape.

Veteran Favorites

Veteran favorites like Sutton Foster (Once Upon a Mattress) and Idina Menzel (Redwood) were also passed over, prompting fans and insiders to question the balance between honoring new work and celebrating established names. Foregone nominations for productions like Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends and The Last Five Years added to the chatter. Yet, many applauded the risk-taking evidenced by multiple first-time nominees and the prominence of original shows over revivals or celebrity-driven projects.

In moments like these, the Tony Awards reflect not just a snapshot of current theatre but a message about the direction Broadway chooses to spotlight. The mix of cheers and raised eyebrows remind us that the nominations are as much about choices and changing tastes as they are about sheer talent.

Key Takeaways from Reactions:

Deep gratitude from first-time nominees like Mia Farrow.
Respectful acknowledgment of fierce competition from veterans like Jonathan Groff.
Emotions run high around major snubs (Denzel Washington, Jake Gyllenhaal, Sutton Foster).
Emerging talent and original productions dominate attention.
The season’s nominations spark healthy debate on Broadway’s evolving priorities.

These voices help paint the full picture of the 2025 Tony Award nominations—not only who made the list but what that means for the future of theater.

How to Watch the 2025 Tony Awards Ceremony

The 78th Annual Tony Awards promises to be an electrifying celebration of Broadway’s best, and knowing how to catch every moment is key for theater fans. Whether you prefer the tradition of live television or the flexibility of streaming, the 2025 ceremony offers multiple ways to tune in and witness the glamour, the thrills, and the moments of triumph. Below, we break down the essential details to make sure you don’t miss a second of the star-filled event.

Broadcast and Streaming Details

On Sunday, June 8, 2025, the Tony Awards will air live from the iconic Radio City Music Hall in New York City. Here’s how you can watch:

CBS Live Broadcast: The ceremony will be broadcast live on CBS from 8:00 to 11:00 PM Eastern Time (5:00 to 8:00 PM Pacific Time). This ensures viewers across the United States can experience the awards in real time, right from their living rooms or wherever they watch TV.
Paramount+ Streaming: If you prefer streaming, Paramount+ offers live coverage alongside on-demand access after the broadcast. Subscribers to Paramount+ with SHOWTIME can stream the event live, while Paramount+ Essential subscribers gain access to the show the day after it airs. This streaming flexibility makes it easy to watch whether you prefer a phone, tablet, or smart TV.
Additional Platforms: CBS is also available through live TV streaming services such as Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV, adding even more options to catch the broadcast without a traditional cable subscription.
Pre-Show and Highlights: CBS and Pluto TV provide a pre-show experience, The Tony Awards: Act One, featuring exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content to warm up audiences before the main event.

With so many ways to watch across different devices and platforms, the 2025 Tony Awards create an accessible and engaging experience for longtime Broadway devotees and new viewers alike.

Host Cynthia Erivo: A Star-Studded Night

Having Cynthia Erivo as the 2025 Tony Awards host adds an exciting layer of talent and charisma to the evening. Erivo is more than a celebrated performer—she is a powerhouse across all major entertainment arenas.

Tony Award Winner: Cynthia first won a Tony for her astonishing role in The Color Purple, quickly becoming a Broadway darling known for her emotional depth and powerful voice.
Emmy and Grammy Honors: Her Emmy nods and Grammy success underscore her versatility as not just an actor but also a singer with a wide artistic range.
Oscar Nominee: Erivo’s recognition by the Academy Awards for her transformative work in film highlights her rare ability to cross mediums—and win acclaim in each.

Her presence as host means viewers can expect not just a show, but a performance. Known for blending sophistication with warmth and humor, Cynthia Erivo will guide the ceremony with an energy that reflects the spirit of Broadway itself—a mix of passion, resilience, and star power.

With her at the helm, the 2025 Tony Awards will be a night of unforgettable moments, high emotions, and genuine celebration of theatrical artistry. Prepare to be captivated by a host who embodies the excellence the Tonys represent.

Understanding the Tony Awards: What They Represent

The Tony Awards are much more than a flashy event in a glittering venue. They stand as a beacon of achievement in Broadway theatre, honoring artistry and hard work across every facet of production. To truly appreciate the significance of the Tony Nominations 2025, it helps to look at the awards’ origins and their deep meaning to the Broadway community. The Tonys tell a story—not just of who wins or loses, but of how theatre grows, thrives, and connects audiences and artists alike.

History and Evolution of the Tonys

The Tony Awards began in 1947, founded by the American Theatre Wing to celebrate outstanding achievements in live Broadway theatre. Named after Antoinette “Tony” Perry—a talented actress, producer, and director who deeply shaped American theatre—the awards started modestly, honoring just 10 categories at a small ceremony.

Since those early days, they have expanded significantly to recognize the full range of theatrical craft. Now, the Tonys include over 25 categories, covering everything from acting and directing to lighting design, sound, choreography, and technical innovation. This growth reflects the ever-changing nature of theatre, where behind-the-scenes wizardry is as vital as the performances on stage.

The iconic medallion trophy, designed by Herman Rosse in 1949, symbolizes the dual nature of theatre: comedy and tragedy. Over time, not only have the categories diversified, but the awards themselves have kept pace with shifts in theatrical style, technology, and inclusivity. For example:

New categories like Best Sound Design appeared, disappeared, and were reinstated, showing responsiveness to the craft’s evolving needs.
Special awards, such as the Isabelle Stevenson Award, honor humanitarian efforts within the theatre community.

From a small New York ceremony to a nationally televised event, the Tonys have adapted while holding fast to their core mission: celebrating excellence on Broadway.

Importance to the Broadway Community

For Broadway, the Tony Awards are a powerful force shaping careers and the business side of theatre. A nomination or win can transform an actor, director, or show overnight, opening new doors and boosting public interest.

Career Impact: A Tony nod often marks a defining moment, shining a spotlight on artists who might otherwise remain under the radar. It can lead to new roles, higher demand, and an elevated reputation in theatre circles and beyond.
Box Office Boost: Shows that earn Tony nominations or wins usually see sharp increases in ticket sales, sometimes extending their runs for months or even years. That surge helps sustain Broadway’s economy, supporting hundreds of artists and crew members.
Shaping Trends: The Tonys set the tone for what Broadway values at any given moment. Whether it’s celebrating bold new stories or honoring classic revivals, the awards highlight the themes and styles that resonate with audiences and critics alike.
Community Celebration: On a broader level, the Tonys bring together everyone involved in theatre. They offer a moment of pride, recognition, and shared joy, reminding us all of the collaborative spirit behind every successful production.

The Tony Awards hold a mirror up to Broadway, reflecting its history, its current pulse, and the evolving art of live theatre. As we look ahead to the Tony Nominations 2025 and the awards show, understanding this context deepens appreciation for what the Tonys truly represent—both a tradition and a celebration of theatre’s boundless creativity.

Conclusion

The Tony Nominations 2025 reveal a Broadway season bursting with fresh stories, seasoned talent, and remarkable creativity across every aspect of theatre. From the richly textured Buena Vista Social Club to the innovative Maybe Happy Ending, the nominees highlight where live theatre is heading—engaging, diverse, and full of heart. The evening of June 8 promises a celebration that honors this mix of tradition and new voices.

As you prepare to watch the 78th Tony Awards live on CBS or stream via Paramount+, consider supporting these extraordinary artists and productions that keep Broadway vibrant. Their dedication shapes not only the stage but the future of theatre itself.

Mark your calendar, gather with fellow theatre lovers, and join in the applause for the nominees who bring stories to life with passion and precision. Broadway’s finest await the spotlight, and your cheers will be part of the magic.