Well, if our super scientific polling numbers are any indication, one category in particular is going to be a close call on Sunday (yes, we’re officially less than a week away from the Tony Awards)! This weekend, we asked you which first-time Tony nominee you were rooting for. We included representatives from all eight performance categories, but Best Actor in a Musical proved to be a hot topic. From an international New York newbie and a slugging Broadway vet to a lovable TV superstar, here’s who you voted for!
1. Ramin Karimloo—43%
Karimloo may be making his Broadway debut in Les Miserables, but this shirtless Jean Valjean has a major fan following, whether he’s belting out an iconic musical theater score or crooning bluegrass. And if you aren’t done swooning, check out his Broadway.com series, Vlogger 24601, where Karimloo dons a creepy mask, leads a gospel singalong and admits to being boring. We respectfully disagree with that last one.
2. Andy Karl—39%
Karl has been a Broadway favorite for years, but celebrates his first Tony nod for his leading turn as the Italian Stallion himself in Rocky. When he’s not going head-to-head with our poll’s front-runner, Karl can be caught downing raw eggs, sparring with raw meat and climbing those iconic steps at the Winter Garden Theatre. After his extreme physical transformation, Karl is one fighter you should look out for on Sunday.
3. Neil Patrick Harris—7%
Speaking of physical transformations...The Emmy winner appeared on Broadway in Assassins, Proof and Cabaret before his legen—wait for it—dary stint on How I Met Your Mother, and returns to the Great White Way in the acclaimed revival of Hedwig and the Angry Inch, rocking kickass heels and lots and lots of wigs. Just an observation, NPH: you’re trailing behind two Broadway.com vloggers. Just let us know if you want in.