Laura Benanti's Stark Criticism of Zachary Levi

In a shocking revelation, Broadway star Laura Benanti has voiced her strong disdain for former co-star Zachary Levi during a recent podcast interview. The two shared the stage in the acclaimed 2016 Tony Award-winning revival of 'She Loves Me.' Despite their on-stage chemistry, Benanti made it abundantly clear that her feelings toward Levi were far from warm.

Candid Comments on the Podcast

Speaking candidly on Eric Williams' That's a Gay Ass Podcast, Benanti stated, 'I never liked him. Everyone was like, ‘He’s so great!’ And I was like, ‘No, he’s not. He’s sucking up all the f***ing energy in this room. He wants to mansplain everybody’s part to them.’ Her comments have sent ripples through the Broadway community, highlighting the sometimes turbulent dynamics behind the curtain.

On-Stage Chemistry vs. Off-Stage Tensions

The Roundabout Theatre Company's production was a festive celebration of love and secrets, featuring an ensemble cast that included the likes of Jane Krakowski and Gavin Creel. Yet, while the chemistry between Benanti and Levi was essential to the storyline, it seems that off-stage tensions overshadowed their performances. Benanti elaborated on Levi’s exuberant personality, describing it as a 'dance party energy' that detracted from the collaborative spirit of the cast.

A Somber Moment in the Conversation

The conversation took a somber turn when they discussed the late Gavin Creel, a beloved talent who passed away recently at the age of 48 due to a rare and aggressive cancer. The loss of Creel sent shockwaves throughout the theater world, prompting heartfelt tributes from fans and fellow performers alike.

Levi's Controversial Comments

However, tensions flared again when Levi made controversial comments linking Creel’s death to the COVID-19 vaccine during an Instagram Live session, suggesting that it played a role in his former co-star's tragic diagnosis. This claim was met with significant backlash as colleagues and fans alike criticized him for what they deemed irresponsible rhetoric.

Benanti's Response to Levi

In response to Levi’s remarks, Benanti did not hold back. She expressed her disgust during the podcast, saying, 'To use his memory for his political agenda and to watch him try to make himself cry until he had one single tear, which he did not wipe away, I was like, ‘F*** you forever.’ This incident underscores the importance of empathy and respect in artistic communities, where personal and professional challenges often intersect.

The Aftermath and Continuing Mourning

The theater world continues to mourn Creel’s untimely death while navigating the fallout from Levi’s inflammatory statements. As fans and colleagues process these events, one thing is clear: the Broadway stage can sometimes be just as dramatic off-stage as it is on, revealing complex relationships that can linger long after the curtain falls.