“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players” – this age-old Shakespearean quote might have compared reality to theatre, but being on stage itself is no joke. Actors have often recounted their nerve-wracking experiences of performing in front of a live audience, which is much tougher than acting in front of a camera. Very few have managed to dominate the troupe; Cole Escola being one of the most recent acting pioneers to have won the prestigious Tony Award.
Escola was among the select few performers who lit the red carpet on fire at the 78th Annual Tony Awards 2025, celebrating the best of Broadway. Held at the effervescent Radio City Music Hall, the night saw the 38-year-old actor lift the Leading Actor in a Play trophy for their performance in Oh, Mary! But there’s another role that the talented performer is vying for.
Cole Escola wants to play a straight guy
On Sunday, June 8, Cole Escola made history by becoming the first nonbinary performer to score a Tony win for any play category for acting. A big win for the LGBTQ+ community, especially in Pride month, will provide a major push to the cause, bringing massive recognition to non-binary actors and opening more doors.
As for Escola, there’s one character they are literally “dying” to play. On their recent visit to The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Escola talked about what they want to do after their highly successful show, Oh, Mary. Feeling embarrassed by the sudden surge in attention, they said:
So much attention right now. It’s too much. I am dying to play a straight Guy. I really want to play a straight guy.
On being asked if they had any specific character in mind, Escola acted it out in a hilarious way, despite being incredibly nervous. While they didn’t reveal who the character was, the audience shared a hearty laugh, and Escola would go on to bask in the glory of their Tony Award.
Cole Escola thanks their Mom and a “Grindr date” in acceptance speech
Cole Escola never misses an opportunity to leave an unforgettable impression. The comedian, writer, and actor, known for their razor-sharp humor, took to the stage at the Tony Award ceremony to accept their honor. While the moment was ripe for polished gratitude, Escola kept it fresh, sincere, and delightfully unpredictable.
Escola’s speech began with a thank-you note to fellow nominees. They noted (via AOL):
I want to thank the other nominees, George, Jon, Harry, Daniel and Louis. It’s an honor to be in your company, and more than that, it’s been a sincere pleasure spending time with you over these warm salads at all these lunches.
However, as they turned over to express their gratitude to their family and friends, the speech took an unexpected and hilarious turn. They continued,
First of all, hi mom. I love you. I’ll call you when I can. Oh and T Bone from Grindr!
Escola would go on to mention several other people, including director Sam Pinkleton and fellow comedian Amy Sedaris, but the sudden quip left the audience in stitches for quite some time. Nothing like a well-timed dose of gag to end an acceptance speech!
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