When you put some of the world’s best actors and best singers in one room, you’re sure to have a memorable show, and the 2025 Tony Awards did not disappoint.
Hosted by Wicked actress Cynthia Erivo — who is no stranger to the stage herself after having starred in The Color Purple back in 2015 — this year’s Tony Awards were full of tear-jerking moments. From Sarah Snook’s touching acceptance speech to Audra McDonald’s rendition of “Rose’s Return,” to Francis Jue’s sweet homage.
However, with so much going on, some hilariously unplanned and unscripted moments made for good TV — we’re looking at you, Cole Escola!
Below, see the best, worst and most oops moments from the Tony Awards.
Best Callback to an Internet Meme: Cynthia Erivo and Oprah Winfrey
Cynthia Erivo had the house on its feet with her rousing opener that featured an original song.
Not only did the Wicked actress pay homage to Broadway’s best with references to Annie and Sunset Blvd., but she also got an assist from Oprah, who helped her hold space for everyone, a la that famous interview.
Most Meaningful Garment: Francis Jue’s Gifted Tuxedo
While accepting the award for Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Play for his role in Yellow Face, Francis Jue revealed he was wearing a tuxedo gifted to him by the late actor Alvin Ing.
“He had it made for himself for the opening of Pacific Overtures on Broadway in 1976, and when he gave it to me 20 years ago, he told me he wanted me to wear it when I accepted my Tony Award,” Jue said in his speech.
Worst Moment to Lean Into a Joke: Playing Off Kara Young Mid-Speech
While hosting, Cynthia Erivo joked that anyone taking more than 90 seconds for their acceptance speech will be played off to her singing.
Well, the program cashed in on the promise during a not-so-ideal moment. Erivo’s voice started playing as Kara Young was wrapping up her speech after snagging the trophy for Best Actress in a Featured Role in a Play. It was her second consecutive win.
Best Use of Free Will: Jonathan Groff Giving Keanu Reeves a Pseudo–Lap Dance
Jonathan Groff made the most of his performance for Just in Time. Midway through a medley that included “Mack the Knife, “That’s All” and “Once in a Lifetime,” Groff jumped into the audience and straddled his The Matrix Resurrections costar Keanu Reeves.
Embracing the moment, Reeves was captured throwing up rock-‘n’-roll signs with his hands and going along with the bit.
Most Anticipated Reunion: ‘Hamilton’ 10th Anniversary
The cast of Hamilton took us back 10 years as they performed a “mixtape” of the songs from the hit musical. Included in the performance were the show’s creator Lin-Manuel Miranda, as well as Daveed Diggs, Leslie Odom Jr., Phillipa Soo, Christopher Jackson, Anthony Ramos and more.
Best Way to Honor Loved Ones: Sara Bareilles and Cynthia Erivo’s In Memoriam Performance
Cynthia Erivo took a break from her hosting duties as she joined Sara Bareilles for a heartwarming performance of “Tomorrow.” The singers melodized the classic song from Annie as the room paid respects to colleagues they’ve lost in the last year, including James Earl Jones, Gavin Creel, Maggie Smith and more.
Oops, There Goes the Sound: Sarah Paulson’s Dress Hits the Mic
While stepping up to present the award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play, Sarah Paulson’s dress accidentally hit the mic, resulting in a cute moment between her and co-presenter Jean Smart.
“It’s fine, it’s fine. It’s a man-eating dress,” the American Horror Story actress said. “You stole my joke,” Smart quipped. “I did steal your joke,” Paulson responded as they broke into laughter.
Most Unhinged Yet Totally Necessary Shout-Out: ‘Tebo from Grindr’
Cole Escola made sure their first Tony Award acceptance speech was one to remember.
While accepting the award for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Play, Escola listed all the important and influential people in their life — mom, cast, crew, producers and a host of friends, including “Tebo from Grindr.”
Just … the Best: Audra McDonald Brings Down the House
Proving why she’s the most Tony-nominated performer in history, Audra McDonald brought the house down and garnered a standing ovation with a powerful performance of “Rose’s Return” from Gypsy.
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