Tom Francis has quickly become one of Broadway's most talked-about new talents. Known for his powerful vocals and magnetic stage presence, Francis captivates audiences as he takes on the challenging role of Joe Gillis in the celebrated revival of Sunset Boulevard. With critical acclaim and awards recognition following his every performance, it's clear that Tom Francis is a name you need to know in contemporary musical theatre.
Though relatively new to the Broadway scene, Tom Francis has demonstrated remarkable range and emotion in his role in Sunset Boulevard. This revival, directed by Jamie Lloyd, emphasizes a minimalist approach to storytelling, allowing the actors' raw talent to shine. Francis, paired with Nicole Scherzinger as Norma Desmond, brings nuanced depth to the troubled character of Gillis, immersing the audience in the classic tale of faded fame and ambition.
One of the highlights of Francis's Broadway debut is his participation in the Tiny Desk Concert for NPR, which distilled the musical’s essence into a captivating live session. Performing alongside Scherzinger, Francis delivered reimagined versions of standout tracks like “The Perfect Year” and “Sunset Boulevard,” demonstrating both his vocal versatility and his ability to connect emotionally with listeners. The stripped-down arrangements showcased Francis's ability to command attention even without elaborate staging, a testament to his stagecraft.
The revival of Sunset Boulevard, with Tom Francis sharing the spotlight, has caught the eye of critics and awards committees alike. The production picked up seven nominations at the 2025 Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical. For more insight into the accolades and creative process behind this acclaimed show, explore the coverage on Playbill.
Live theatre is unpredictable, and Tom Francis has handled every challenge with professionalism. After a technical issue halted a matinee performance, Nicole Scherzinger famously performed through a megaphone for an eager audience. This memorable moment, with Francis by her side, further highlighted the cast’s dedication. You can watch the story unfold and see how the cast—including Tom Francis—turns setbacks into once-in-a-lifetime encounters, on ABC News.
With his debut earning widespread attention and the revival’s momentum only growing, Tom Francis has solidified his place as one of Broadway's rising stars. His blend of vocal prowess and emotional authenticity marks him as a performer to watch. Whether you’re a long-time fan of musical theatre or new to the scene, keeping an eye on Tom Francis promises a rewarding journey through some of Broadway’s most compelling performances.
Discover more about Tom Francis and the ongoing revival of Sunset Boulevard by following updates from NPR, Playbill, and ABC News.