Dozens of celebrities from stage and screen have taken to social media to share heartfelt tributes to Gavin Creel, following the shocking news of his death this week. The American Horror Stories star passed away on Monday at the age of 48, just months after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer.
Creel, who was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive sarcoma in July, died at his home in Manhattan, New York. His partner, Alex Temple Ward, confirmed that Gavin had been receiving treatment for the cancer, which affects connective tissues such as bones, muscle, fat, nerves, and blood vessels. Sarcoma is often found in the arms and legs. After undergoing treatment at New York’s Memorial Sloan Kettering, he was later transferred to hospice care at home.
Throughout his illustrious career, Creel made numerous appearances on Broadway and earned a Tony Award nomination for his leading role in the 2002 production of *Thoroughly Modern Millie*. His contributions to theater and television will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.
Gavin Creel at the opening night of “Mother Play” held at the Hayes Theater earlier this year in New York (
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Gavin Creel has received heartbreaking tributes from Bette Midler, Ted Lasso’s Hannah Waddingham, and more A-list stars (
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Although he made a name for himself in the States, Gavin also became a hit in the UK, playing Elder Price in The Book of Mormon between 2012 and 2015. The role saw him bag a prestigious Olivier Award for his performance. But in 2017, he also walked away with a Tony Award for playing Cornelius in the Broadway performance of Hello, Dolly! alongside legendary singer and actress, Bette Midler.
His Hello, Dolly! costar Bette Midler lead the celebrity tributes writing on X: “Beloved by the Broadway community, the radiant actor Gavin Creel has died from a rare form of cancer. He played Cornelius Hackl to my Dolly in “Hello Dolly” and I looked forward to working with him every single night. He was fantastic. I can’t believe he’s gone. What a loss.”
Wicked superstar and Broadway legend Idina Menzel wrote on Instagram: ‘Sweet sweet Gavin Creel. An angel among the angels. I love you so much.’ Bernadette Peters wrote: “Gavin Creel. What a beautiful soul what a fine person, a great performer and voice RIP. We are all so sad.’
Ted Lasso’s Hannah Waddingham wrote on X: “I’ve just had to sit down. I keep rereading his name thinking everyone’s got it wrong. Not this man, not this beautiful, smiley, talented man. The absolute real deal, talent pouring out of every pore. I’m heartbroken you’ve gone Gavin. I hope to see you again my friend. God I’m shaken to my core.”
Gavin is survived by his mum Nancy Clemens Creel, dad James Wiliiam Creel, sisters Heather Elise Creel, Allyson Jo Creel and his partner, Alex Temple Ward. A private funeral will be held but his family have stated that a memorial will be planned in the future. Any gifts in his memory are to be made to Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids.
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