George Clooney reacts to Cynthia Erivo joke at 2025 Tony Awards as the Oscars winner became a subject of light-hearted teasing during his Broadway debut at the annual event in New York. During the 2025 ceremony, Erivo, who hosted the show, poked fun at Clooney’s status on stage, delighting audience members and acknowledging both Broadway’s return and the high-profile nominees.
Cynthia Erivo Teases Clooney as ‘Up-and-Comer’ in Broadway Debut
Tony Awards host Cynthia Erivo made waves when she referred to George Clooney as an “up-and-comer,” referencing his first appearance on Broadway in his play Good Night, and Good Luck. Erivo, introducing the year’s nominees, recognized a list of newcomers in the industry:
“Featuring first-time nominees like Cole Escola, Sadie Sink, Louis McCartney — and an up-and-comer that I think you’re going to be hearing a lot about: George Clooney.”
—Cynthia Erivo, Tony Awards Host
The cameras captured Clooney’s immediate, understated response as he shrugged and mouthed, “It’s alright,” indicating that he welcomed the playful moment. This exchange quickly became a highlight of the night, reflecting the ceremony’s festive tone.
Broadway and Awards Season Get the Spotlight
The 2025 Tony Awards celebrated a dynamic pool of performers and productions, with Erivo playing a pivotal role in setting the evening’s mood. She continued her playful banter with Clooney through more pointed quips:
“Good for you, George. Things are going your way; I like it a lot for you.”
—Cynthia Erivo, Tony Awards Host
Clooney, practiced in the art of gentle self-deprecation, responded with a nod and a soft laugh from his seat. Erivo mimicked Clooney’s signature style, joking about the stage’s serious atmosphere and the abundance of attractive actors in stylized stage scenes:
“This season Broadway audiences were thrilled by (the) endless amount of stage cameras, abundance of serious men smoking, and the extreme black and white close-ups of extremely attractive people.”
—Cynthia Erivo, Tony Awards Host
Additionally, Erivo took the opportunity to make a witty remark about HBO’s acclaimed show, Succession, tying it into her broader commentary about the theater season:
“Broadway is officially back. Provided we don’t run out of cast members of Succession.”
—Cynthia Erivo, Tony Awards Host
Clooney’s Perspective and Awards Outcome
During his attendance, George Clooney reflected on his Broadway journey and the challenges of balancing a demanding stage schedule. Speaking with The Hollywood Reporter, he shared insights into the experience:
“It was pretty fun to do it, and it was also fun to stop doing it.”
—George Clooney, Actor
“Just like, take a break because it’s been late nights and stuff.”
—George Clooney, Actor
Clooney was among the nominees for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play, recognized for his work in Good Night, and Good Luck. Ultimately, Cole Escola, lead actor in Oh, Mary!, clinched the award, prevailing in a competitive category that included Clooney, Sadie Sink, and Louis McCartney.
What This Moment Means for Broadway’s Future
The 2025 Tony Awards set a reflective yet optimistic tone as Broadway continued its post-pandemic resurgence, with top-tier talent such as Clooney finding new creative ground on stage. Cynthia Erivo’s wit, the presence of fresh faces in the nominee list, and the light-hearted spirit showcased a community ready to embrace both its seasoned stars and emerging artists. As the curtain closes on this season, the show reaffirmed its vibrant place at the heart of American theater, hinting at more exciting collaborations—both playful and profound—in years to come.
