**Jonathan Groff Reflects on His Path to Self-Acceptance and the Lasting Impact of Gavin Creel**
Broadway star Jonathan Groff recently shared insights into his journey toward embracing his identity and how his late ex-partner, Gavin Creel, played a crucial role in his coming out. Speaking on NPR’s *Wild Card with Rachel Martin* on May 15, Groff reflected on the importance of coming out on his own terms and how Creel’s openness and activism helped inspire his decision.
**Finding Himself in New York City**
At 19, Groff moved to New York City to pursue a career in theater. He soon joined the cast of *Spring Awakening*, a production that would launch his career. Although he formed close bonds with the cast, he kept his personal life mostly private. Groff remembered calling his boyfriend Cody his “roommate,” noting that while others may have known the truth, no one pressured him to reveal his sexuality. He appreciated the quiet support from those around him, saying, “No one ever really pushed me to declare who I was. They just held me with love.”
That kind of supportive environment gave Groff the freedom to come to terms with his identity in his own time. He credited his move to New York as helping him fully embrace and accept his sexuality.
**The Role of Gavin Creel**
Gavin Creel—a Tony Award-winning actor and LGBTQ+ advocate—was a key figure in Groff’s personal journey. Creel’s openness and dedication to LGBTQ+ rights deeply influenced Groff, especially during their relationship. In 2009, Creel helped organize the National Equality March in Washington, D.C., through his initiative Broadway Impact. His fearless authenticity helped inspire Groff to embrace his truth publicly.
During the march, a journalist asked Groff if he was gay. Hesitant at first, he looked to Creel, who was leading the rally with a bullhorn, and found the courage to say, “Yes, I’m gay.” That moment became Groff’s public coming out. Reflecting on the experience, he said, “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 for giving him the strength to live truthfully, saying, “He changed my life.”
**Love, Loss, and Gratitude**
Gavin Creel sadly passed away in September 2024 at the age of 48 due to sarcoma. His death deeply affected Groff and the theater community. Groff has openly spoken about the profound grief he feels and the significant role Creel played in his life. He expressed heartfelt appreciation for the time they shared, saying, “I owe him that and I am so grateful we got to talk about it many times even after we broke up.”
**Inspiring Others Through His Story**
Jonathan Groff’s candid reflections highlight how personal growth and identity are often shaped by love, support, and the freedom to come out on one’s own terms. His story stands as a testament to the power of authenticity and the enduring influence of those who walk beside us on that journey.
As Groff continues to light up the stage, he also contributes to a broader conversation about LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance in the performing arts, carrying forward a legacy of love, courage, and advocacy.