John Lloyd Young, born on April 7, 1975 in San Francisco, California, is an accomplished stage actor known for his Tony Award winning performance as Frankie Valli in Broadway's Jersey Boys. Young's portrayal of Valli in the hit musical earned him the prestigious Tony Award for Lead Actor in a Musical in 2006, making him the first American actor to receive this honor for the role.
Before his success on Broadway, Young pursued his passion for theatre after graduating with honors from Brown University. Moving to New York City, he embarked on a journey to establish himself as a versatile actor in the competitive world of musical theatre. Despite facing initial setbacks, Young's determination and talent ultimately led to landing the coveted role of Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys after a series of rigorous auditions.
In addition to his Tony Award win, Young garnered critical acclaim for his performance, earning a Drama Desk Award, Outer Critics Circle Award, and a Theatre World Award for his Broadway debut. His talent and dedication to his craft caught the attention of legendary filmmaker Clint Eastwood, who cast him as Frankie Valli in the 2014 film adaptation of Jersey Boys.
Aside from his success in the world of theatre and film, Young was appointed by President Barack Obama to serve on the President's Committee on the Arts and Humanities in 2013. This prestigious position further solidified his reputation as a respected figure in the arts community.
Young's roots in California and New York have shaped his career and personal life. Born to an English father and Italian mother in Sacramento, he later graduated high school in Plattsburgh, New York. His diverse cultural background and education have undoubtedly influenced his approach to acting and storytelling on stage.
In addition to his iconic role as Frankie Valli, Young has showcased his versatility as an actor through performances in various productions. He notably portrayed Marius Pontmercy in the Hollywood Bowl rendition of Les Misérables, a classic musical based on the novel by Victor Hugo.
John Lloyd Young's journey to success in the entertainment industry is a testament to his talent, hard work, and perseverance. With a Tony Award under his belt and a reputation as a versatile and accomplished actor, Young continues to captivate audiences on stage and screen with his exceptional performances.