Scott Rudin Wins Tony in Absentia Amidst Ongoing Hollywood Comeback
NEW YORK – Producer Scott Rudin received a Tony Award for Best Revival of a Play on June 11, 2023, as lead producer of the Broadway revival of Death of a Salesman. Rudin did not attend the ceremony; actor Nathan Lane accepted the award on behalf of the production.
Key Details
- The revival also won Tony Awards for Best Lead Actress in a Play (Laurie Metcalf) and Best Direction of a Play (Joe Mantello).
- Nathan Lane and Christopher Abbott were nominated but did not win.
Background
In 2021, a Hollywood Reporter article detailed allegations of bullying and verbal abuse by Rudin, including throwing objects at staff. Following the report and protests, Rudin resigned from the Broadway League and halted producing for several years.
He previously produced major Broadway shows such as The Music Man and Hello, Dolly!. Rudin began a soft return to producing with projects at Little Island and an off-Broadway play, returning to Broadway in fall 2022.
Reactions
Laurie Metcalf stated that Rudin had apologized, taken responsibility, and was in therapy, adding that “unless we think there is no possibility of real rehabilitation, then we shouldn’t ask people to try and do it.”
Joe Mantello said he believes Rudin has taken accountability and that he believes in second chances.
The Steppenwolf Theatre Company initially refused to work with Rudin on the play Little Bear Ridge Road; Metcalf reportedly threatened to quit the company to secure the rights.