Darren Criss Returns to Broadway's 'Maybe Happy Ending' Following Casting Controversy

Following backlash over casting a non-Asian actor in the lead role, Darren Criss is returning to the Broadway musical.

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Thu, Aug 21, 25
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Darren Criss will return to the Broadway musical 'Maybe Happy Ending' on November 5th after significant controversy surrounding the casting of Andrew Barth Feldman, a non-Asian actor, in a role previously performed by Asian actors. Criss, who is of Asian descent and originally created the role of Oliver, will resume playing his robotic character.

The musical, written by Will Aronson and Hue Park, tells the story of two life-like robots who develop a relationship in futuristic Seoul. Since its Korean premiere in 2016 and Broadway debut in 2024, the show has won six Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

BD Wong led a public campaign against the casting decision, writing an open letter that gathered over 2,400 signatures from prominent Asian American performers. The creators acknowledged the controversy and expressed regret that their project had caused confusion and hurt within the community.

Original Article

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https://deadline.com/2025/08/darren-criss-returning-maybe-happy-ending-1236493744/

Comprehension Quiz
Question 1 of 30 Correct
Who wrote the musical 'Maybe Happy Ending'?
BD Wong and Darren Criss
Will Aronson and Hue Park
Andrew Feldman and BD Wong
Darren Criss and Hue Park
Select an answer above

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