For the first time in 16 years, a woman could once again take home the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical. The 2025 Tony Award nominations, announced on May 1, are filled with a wave of incredible female talent, marking a new chapter in Broadway’s ongoing evolution toward better representation for women on stage.
The Historic Nominations
This year’s Best Actress in a Musical nominees are a star-studded group, showcasing powerful performances and undeniable talent. Let’s dive into what makes each of these women so special and why their nominations are such a significant moment in Broadway history.
Megan Hilty – Death Becomes Her
Megan Hilty has long been recognized as a Broadway powerhouse, known for her incredible vocal talent and stage presence. This year, she’s received a Tony nomination for her role in Death Becomes Her, a musical adaptation of the beloved 1992 film. Hilty’s previous work on Broadway, including her breakout role in Wicked as Glinda, solidified her as one of the industry’s most versatile performers. With a career spanning multiple Broadway hits and television shows like Smash, Hilty’s nomination for Best Actress is a well-deserved acknowledgment of her dynamic range and commitment to the craft.
Audra McDonald – Gypsy
Audra McDonald is no stranger to the Tony stage, having already won an astounding six Tony Awards throughout her career. Her latest nomination, for her performance as Rose in Gypsy, adds yet another incredible chapter to her storied career. Known for her unparalleled vocal ability and powerful stage presence, McDonald has wowed audiences in everything from Ragtime to Porgy and Bess. Her performances are always a masterclass in storytelling, and this nomination for Gypsy further cements her legacy as one of Broadway’s most talented and beloved stars.
Jasmine Amy Rogers – BOOP! The Musical
Jasmine Amy Rogers is a rising star who has made an impressive debut with BOOP! The Musical. Rogers brings a fresh, vibrant energy to her portrayal of the iconic Betty Boop, capturing both the character’s charm and complexity. Known for her versatility as a performer, Rogers has already been praised for her ability to connect with audiences in her stage performances. Her nomination for Best Actress marks a significant milestone in her early career, and the future looks incredibly bright for this talented newcomer.
Nicole Scherzinger – Sunset Boulevard
Nicole Scherzinger, known for her time as the lead singer of the Pussycat Dolls and her successful solo career, has transitioned into the world of musical theater with undeniable style. This year, she earned a Tony nomination for her portrayal of Norma Desmond in Sunset Boulevard, taking on a role previously made iconic by Glenn Close. Scherzinger’s powerful voice and captivating performance bring new life to this classic role, and her transition from pop star to Broadway leading lady has been nothing short of remarkable. Her nomination is a testament to her range and dedication to her craft.
Jennifer Simard – Death Becomes Her
Jennifer Simard’s nomination for Death Becomes Her is a well-earned recognition for a performer who has been dazzling audiences for years. Known for her impeccable comedic timing and powerful vocals, Simard has built a loyal following from her roles in Broadway productions like Disaster! and The Prom. In Death Becomes Her, she plays the character of Helen Sharp, offering a performance that’s equal parts hilarious and heartfelt. Simard’s Tony nomination is a celebration of her consistent excellence and her ability to turn every performance into a showstopper.
A Long-Awaited Victory
The last woman to win the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical was Alice Ripley in 2009 for her role in Next to Normal. Since then, the category has been dominated by male performers, which has left many Broadway fans and advocates for women’s representation wondering when this imbalance would change. Now, with these powerhouse women dominating this year’s nominations, it feels like a long-awaited shift is finally happening.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Tony Awards
The 78th Annual Tony Awards will be held on June 8, 2025, at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. Hosted by Cynthia Erivo, the ceremony promises to be a night of celebration, honoring the best in Broadway theater. With such a talented group of women nominated this year, there’s no doubt the night will be one to remember, whether it’s for a historic win or simply for the incredible performances that have gotten them here.
This year’s nominations represent a momentous occasion, and as the women of Broadway continue to shine, their impact on the industry is only growing stronger. The Tony Awards may just be the start of a new era where women take center stage in musical theater once again.
