From Revolution to Riches: What Happened to the Original 'Hamilton' Cast?
Lin-Manuel Miranda's groundbreaking musical, Hamilton, took the world by storm when it debuted on Broadway on August 6, 2015. A revolutionary blend of hip-hop, R&B, and traditional Broadway styles, Hamilton told the story of Alexander Hamilton and the founding of the United States with an unprecedented level of diversity and energy. But what happened to the incredible cast who brought this history to life?
Let's journey back to that iconic opening night and then catch up with the stars who made Hamilton a global phenomenon. From the original Schuyler sisters to the formidable King George, we'll explore their careers both during and after their time in the show.
The Leading Players: Where Are They Now?
Lin-Manuel Miranda (Alexander Hamilton): The mastermind behind it all! Miranda stepped away from the role of Hamilton in July 2016, but his influence remains undeniable. Since then, he’s continued to write, direct, and produce, with hits like Moana and Encanto further cementing his status as a creative powerhouse. He’s also a vocal advocate for Puerto Rico and continues to support arts education.
Leslie Odom Jr. (Aaron Burr): Odom’s portrayal of Burr was mesmerizing, earning him a Tony Award. He has since flourished in film and television, appearing in One Night in Miami... (earning an Oscar nomination), Harriet, and Murder on the Orient Express. He also released a successful solo album and continues to tour.
Phillipa Soo (Eliza Schuyler Hamilton): Soo’s delicate and poignant performance as Eliza captivated audiences. She’s continued to work steadily in theater and television, with roles in The Gilded Age and Tatovered Memories*. She’s also a talented singer and has released music of her own.
Renée Elise Goldsberry (Angelica Schuyler): Goldsberry’s powerhouse vocals and commanding presence as Angelica were unforgettable. She’s had a prolific career after Hamilton, appearing in The Good Fight, Altered Carbon, and returning to Broadway in Girl From the North Country.
The Supporting Cast: Still Shining Brightly
Daveed Diggs (Marquis de Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson): Diggs, known for his rapid-fire rapping, has become a sought-after actor. He starred in the film Blindspotting (which he also co-wrote) and voiced Kipper in Soul. He continues to be a dynamic force in both film and theater.
Christopher Jackson (George Washington): Jackson's gravitas and presence as Washington were crucial to the show’s success. He has appeared in In the Heights (both on stage and in the film adaptation) and continues to be a respected figure in the theater community.
Anthony Ramos (John Laurens/Philip Hamilton): Ramos has transitioned seamlessly to film, starring in In the Heights, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, and the upcoming Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire. He’s quickly become one of Hollywood’s rising stars.
Original Cast, Enduring Legacy:** The original cast of Hamilton didn't just perform a show—they created a cultural phenomenon. Their talent, dedication, and the brilliance of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s vision combined to produce a piece of art that continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide. Their individual journeys after the show demonstrate the extraordinary opportunities that can arise from a single, transformative experience. The story of Hamilton is far from over, and the legacy of its original cast will undoubtedly continue to shape the landscape of theater and entertainment for years to come.