Key moments
In a highly anticipated opening, John Lithgow debuted in the play Giant at the Music Box Theatre on March 23, 2026. This performance comes on the heels of his recent casting as Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming Harry Potter series, which he signed onto in early 2025. Critics are already heralding Lithgow’s portrayal in Giant as extraordinary, with many suggesting it could be a frontrunner for the 2026 Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play.
Giant, directed by Nicholas Hytner and written by Mark Rosenblatt, explores the life of Roald Dahl and the scandal surrounding his antisemitic comments. Set in 1983, the play delves into contemporary issues of cancel culture and political correctness, making it alarmingly timely according to Lithgow himself, who stated, “I’ve never been in a play that is so alarmingly timely.” The runtime of the play is 2 hours and 20 minutes, including intermission.
Critics have noted that Lithgow’s performance is not just a role but a masterclass in acting. Stella Everett, a prominent theatre critic, remarked, “Prepare to have your mind blown. Honestly, you’re getting into a masterclass of John Lithgow.” This sentiment reflects the high expectations surrounding Lithgow’s work, especially given his extensive career in both film and theatre.
The play first premiered at the Royal Court Theatre in London in September 2024, where it received a warm reception. Lithgow’s portrayal of Dahl is said to explore themes of bigotry and redemption, prompting audiences to reflect on the complexities of the author’s legacy. As the play opens on Broadway, the anticipation is palpable, with many eager to see how Lithgow navigates this challenging role.
In a recent interview, Lithgow expressed the weight of his new role, saying, “Every interview I will ever do for the rest of my life this will come up.” This highlights the significance of both his role in Giant and his upcoming portrayal of Dumbledore, intertwining his career in a way that captivates audiences across different mediums.
As the opening night unfolds, reactions from the audience and critics alike are expected to shape the future of Giant on Broadway. Lithgow’s performance is already being discussed as a career-best by The Telegraph, indicating that this play could mark a pivotal moment in his illustrious career.
With the spotlight on Lithgow and the themes presented in Giant, the conversation surrounding the play is likely to extend beyond the theatre, engaging audiences in discussions about art, morality, and the legacies of historical figures. As the curtain rises on this new chapter, the impact of Lithgow’s work is sure to resonate for years to come.