Alex Boniello, born October 5, 1990, in Wood-Ridge, New Jersey, is a multifaceted American artist known for his impressive contributions as an actor, musician, author, and producer. Boniello’s journey into the world of theater began during his formative years at Wood-Ridge High School, where he took on roles like Lumiere in Beauty and the Beast and Mark Cohen in Rent. His passion for performing arts led him to Wagner College, where he majored in drama, setting the stage for his future career.
Boniello’s professional theater career took flight in 2013 when he joined the touring company of American Idiot. As part of the ensemble, he also understudied the roles of Johnny and St. Jimmy. His early career continued with notable appearances in the 2014 premiere of 21 Chump Street, a show for which he is featured on the original cast album. In 2015, he performed in the Off-Broadway production of Brooklynite, which showcased his growing talent.
A significant milestone in Boniello’s career came with his role as the “Voice of Moritz” in the Deaf West Theatre’s acclaimed revival of Spring Awakening. This production, which transferred to Broadway, earned him recognition and further established his presence in the theater community. His tenure with the show concluded in January 2016, marking a pivotal moment in his career.
In April 2018, Boniello was announced as the new Connor Murphy in the Broadway production of Dear Evan Hansen, taking over from Mike Faist. His portrayal of Connor Murphy, a role he played until January 2020, received critical acclaim and solidified his reputation as a versatile and talented actor.
Boniello’s achievements extend beyond acting. In 2019, he won a Tony Award for Best Musical as a producer for the Broadway hit Hadestown. This accolade highlighted his capabilities as a producer and his significant impact on the theater industry.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Boniello adapted to new challenges by engaging with fans through virtual platforms. Alongside Andrew Barth Feldman, he co-hosted Broadway Jackbox on Twitch, using the platform to raise funds for Broadway for Racial Justice and the Actor’s Fund. His involvement in streaming video games on his personal Twitch channel further exemplified his ability to connect with audiences in innovative ways.
Boniello made his mark in the music world with the release of his debut EP, Hi, on January 8, 2021. His musical endeavors are complemented by his work as a children’s book author. His debut book, A Case of the Zaps, published by Abrams Books in August 2022 and co-written with his wife April Lavalle, received acclaim and was awarded Good Housekeeping’s 2022 Children’s Book of the Year.
In March 2023, Boniello expanded his television presence with notable roles. He joined CBS’s hit series Ghosts as Crash, the headless ghost, and played Jack of Diamonds in Disney’s Descendants: The Rise of Red, a follow-up to the successful Descendants franchise. His performance in the World Symphonic Premiere of Rent at the Kennedy Center further showcased his versatility.
Boniello’s career continues to thrive as he balances his roles in theater, television, and music. His creative ventures, including the interactive murder mystery series Foul Play, and his ongoing contributions to various artistic fields, reflect his dynamic talent and dedication to his craft.
