Broadway star Jonathan Groff recently opened up about his journey to self-acceptance and the pivotal role his late ex-partner, Gavin Creel, played in his decision to publicly come out as gay. Speaking on NPR’s Wild Card with Rachel Martin on May 15, Groff reflected on the significance of coming out on his own terms and the profound impact of Creel’s activism and support.
Embracing Identity in New York City
At 19, Groff moved to New York City to pursue his dreams in theater. He joined the cast of Spring Awakening, a production that would become a defining moment in his career. Despite the close-knit nature of the cast, Groff maintained a level of privacy about his personal life. He recalled referring to his boyfriend, Cody, as his “roommate,” and while his peers likely suspected the truth, no one pressured him to disclose his sexuality. Groff expressed gratitude for this supportive environment, saying, “No one ever really pushed me to declare who I was. They just held me with love.”
This nurturing atmosphere in the theater community allowed Groff to explore and accept his identity at his own pace. He noted that moving to New York helped him “own my sexual identity” and come to terms with it.
The Influence of Gavin Creel
Groff’s relationship with Gavin Creel, a Tony-winning actor and activist, was a turning point in his journey. Creel was openly gay and a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. In 2009, he played a significant role in organizing the National Equality March in Washington, D.C., through his initiative, Broadway Impact. Creel’s commitment to activism and his unapologetic authenticity inspired Groff to consider publicly embracing his identity.
Groff recounted a pivotal moment during the march when a reporter asked him if he was gay. Initially hesitant, he looked over at Creel, who was leading the event with a bullhorn, and felt compelled to respond truthfully. He approached the reporter and declared, “Yes, I’m gay,” marking his public coming out.
Reflecting on that experience, Groff shared, “I would rather feel this feeling than ever be on a TV show or do a movie. This is so much more meaningful to me.” He credited Creel with giving him the courage to live authentically, stating, “He changed my life.”
A Legacy of Love and Loss
Tragically, Gavin Creel passed away in September 2024 at the age of 48 due to sarcoma. His death left a profound impact on Groff and the Broadway community. Groff has spoken openly about the deep sense of loss he feels, describing Creel as a guiding light in his life. He expressed immense gratitude for their time together, saying, “I owe him that and I am so grateful we got to talk about it many times even after we broke up.”
Continuing the Conversation
Jonathan Groff’s reflections on his coming-out journey highlight the importance of self-determination and the support of loved ones in navigating personal identity. His story serves as an inspiration to many, emphasizing that embracing one’s truth is a deeply personal process that should unfold in its own time.
As Groff continues to shine on stage, his experiences and the legacy of those who have supported him contribute to the ongoing dialogue about LGBTQ+ representation and acceptance in the arts.
