Gavin Creel, a celebrated Broadway performer known for his roles in 'Thoroughly Modern Millie,' 'Hello, Dolly!' and 'Into The Woods,' passed away at the age of 48 from metastatic melanotic peripheral nerve sheath sarcoma, an aggressive cancer he was diagnosed with in July 2024.

After receiving treatment at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Creel transitioned to hospice care before his death on September 30, 2024.

Creel was renowned for his performances in major stage productions, including his Tony Award-winning role in 'Hello Dolly!' opposite Bette Midler in 2017, and received two additional Tony nominations for 'Thoroughly Modern Millie' in 2002 and the 2009 revival of 'Hair.'

His passing is seen as a significant loss not only to Broadway but to the wider artistic community, as many reflected on his kindness, support, and the light he brought to others.

He is survived by his family, partner, and beloved dog, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and dedication to the arts and social causes.

Casey Likes, a young Broadway star, shared a heartfelt tribute describing how Creel's advice and support helped him through difficult times, highlighting the impact he had on younger performers.

In addition to his stage work, Creel released three independently produced pop albums and wrote his own music, including an off-Broadway show titled 'Walk on Through: Confessions of a Museum Novice,' where he addressed personal themes related to relationships, Christianity, and sexuality.

Known for his extraordinary talent, Creel blended innocence with irony, becoming a beloved figure in musical comedy, with critics praising his performances, particularly as the wolf in 'Into the Woods.'

Sutton Foster, who starred alongside Creel in 'Thoroughly Modern Millie,' expressed her sorrow on Instagram, saying, 'My sweet friend. I will love you forever,' reflecting the deep connections he forged in the theater community.

Co-stars and friends, including Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, paid tribute to Creel, expressing their shock and sorrow over his passing, with Menzel calling him 'an angel among angels.'

Creel was a dedicated advocate for LGBTQ rights, having participated in a campaign for marriage equality in New York in 2011 and founded a scholarship fund to support activism among students.