Darren Criss Returns To Maybe Happy Ending
After previously announcing his leaving date, the Tony-winner is due to return!
In July, Darren Criss, star of the acclaimed production Maybe Happy Ending, announced he would be stepping down from his leading role on August 31. Shortly after, Andrew Barth Feldman was named as his successor, stepping into the coveted part. In a surprising turn, producers have announced that Darren Criss will return to the role on November 1, following a nine-week hiatus.
However, last month's casting change sparked controversy within the theatre community. Maybe Happy Ending, originally created in and set in Korea, had been widely praised for its Asian leads - an important milestone in an industry where Asian representation remains limited. The decision to replace Criss with Feldman raised concerns about representation, prompting a public letter of concern signed by prominent figures, including BD Wong, Awkwafina, and Ruthie Ann Miles.
Criss is currently playing HelperBot Oliver, who has reached the end of his service and is content to enjoy his retirement in his Seoul apartment, listening to jazz and watering his plants. But when his neighbor Claire (Shen) knocks on his door seeking a charger, it looks like these two androids do dream of something...love! Follow Oliver and Claire has they head out on an adventure like no other. A balm to those worried by the AI takeover, Maybe Happy Ending is a sweet look at the inner lives of robots, and just what they can experience.
Nominated for 10 2025 Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical for Darren Criss - Maybe Happy Ending is an absolute must-see.
Grab your tickets here while you still can!
