Role

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Performer

Birth

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August 6, 1981 in Queens, NY

 

Leslie Odom Jr. is a renowned American actor, singer, and songwriter who has made a significant impact in the world of classical music. Born on August 6, 1981, in Queens, New York, Odom Jr. grew up in a family that was passionate about music. His father was a jazz musician, and his mother was a classical pianist, which exposed him to different genres of music from a young age. Odom Jr. began his music career at the age of 17 when he joined the cast of Rent, a Broadway musical. He played the role of Paul, a young man living with HIV, and his performance was well-received by the audience. This marked the beginning of his journey in the world of classical music. After his debut in Rent, Odom Jr. went on to perform in several other Broadway productions, including Leap of Faith, which earned him a nomination for the Drama League Award for Distinguished Performance. He also played the role of Aaron Burr in the Broadway production of Hamilton, which was a huge success and earned him critical acclaim. In addition to his work on Broadway, Odom Jr. has also released several albums, including his self-titled debut album in 2014, which featured a mix of jazz and R&B. He also released an album titled Simply Christmas in 2016, which featured classic Christmas songs. One of the highlights of Odom Jr.'s career was his performance in the Broadway production of Hamilton. His portrayal of Aaron Burr was praised for its depth and complexity, and he won the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical in 2016. He also won the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album for his work on the Hamilton soundtrack. Odom Jr. has also made a name for himself as a film and television actor. He has appeared in several movies, including Murder on the Orient Express and Harriet, and has also had recurring roles on television shows such as Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and Smash. In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Odom Jr. is also a philanthropist and activist. He has been involved in several charitable organizations, including the Lupus Foundation of America and the Actors Fund. He has also been an advocate for social justice and has used his platform to speak out against racism and police brutality. Overall, Leslie Odom Jr. is a talented and versatile artist who has made a significant impact in the world of classical music. His performances on Broadway and in film and television have earned him critical acclaim, and his activism and philanthropy have made him a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

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