Darren Criss, the multifaceted artist known for his roles on “Glee” and his Emmy-winning performance in “The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story,” has opened up about his journey in the entertainment industry, reflecting on what he describes as counting his “lucky stars.”
In a recent interview published on December 22, 2024, Criss discussed his current starring role in the Broadway musical “Maybe Happy Ending,” where he plays an obsolete robot named Oliver. This role has been described as one of the most acclaimed performances currently on Broadway. Criss humorously remarked on his career trajectory, “I count my lucky stars every day. I’m runnin’ out of – there’s too many! They’re still showing up. I’m doing ‘CBS Sunday Morning’!” highlighting his ongoing success and gratitude for his career path.
Criss’s career began with viral fame from “A Very Potter Musical” while at the University of Michigan, which he credits with setting him on his current path. He then transitioned into television with his role as Blaine Anderson on “Glee,” where he became a fan favorite and significantly expanded his fanbase. His portrayal of Andrew Cunanan in “American Crime Story” further solidified his reputation as a versatile actor, earning him both an Emmy and a Golden Globe.
Beyond acting, Criss has maintained a strong connection to music, co-founding StarKid Productions and later Elsie Fest, a festival celebrating music from stage and screen. His commitment to the arts extends to his personal life, as he and his wife, Mia, own Tramp Stamp Granny’s, a piano bar in Los Angeles, where Criss often performs, keeping the spirit of live music alive.
In reflecting on his life and career, Criss acknowledges the serendipitous moments that have shaped his journey, from his early viral success to his transition into mainstream television and Broadway. His recent comments also touch on his personal life, noting the timing of “Maybe Happy Ending” with the expansions in his family life, having welcomed a daughter and son in recent years, suggesting that this year has been particularly “blessed” for him.
Darren Criss’s narrative is one of embracing opportunities, maintaining a love for performance, and cherishing the unexpected turns that life offers. His story underscores a philosophy of gratitude and a continuous celebration of the arts, both on stage and in his personal life.