Anthony Rapp, the actor and singer whose career spans groundbreaking Broadway roles and a historic presence in science fiction television, continues to redefine his legacy with a flurry of new projects announced for 2025. As of December 2025, Rapp is experiencing a significant career renaissance, focusing heavily on his roots in musical theatre while also participating in new, compelling dramatic works.
This article provides the most up-to-date information on his current professional endeavors, including major stage appearances, concert reunions with fellow *Rent* alumni, and a look back at the defining moments of his life, from his pivotal role as Mark Cohen to his public stand against powerful figures in Hollywood.
Anthony Rapp: A Definitive Biography and Profile
Anthony Deane Rapp is an American actor, singer, writer, and director best known for originating one of the most iconic roles in modern musical theatre. His career is a testament to the power of the stage and screen, marked by a commitment to complex, often queer-friendly characters.
- Full Name: Anthony Deane Rapp
- Born: October 26, 1971
- Place of Birth: Joliet, Illinois, U.S.
- Occupation: Actor, Singer, Writer, Director
- Key Broadway Roles: Mark Cohen in *Rent* (Original Cast), Lucas in *If/Then*
- Key Film/TV Roles: Mark Cohen in the *Rent* film (2005), Commander Paul Stamets in *Star Trek: Discovery* (2017–2024), Tony in *Dazed and Confused*, Richard Babysitter in *Adventures in Babysitting*
- Literary Work: *Without You: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and the Musical 'Rent'* (2006)
- Awards: Obie Award (for *Rent*)
Rapp began his career in community theater as a child, quickly transitioning to film roles in the late 1980s and early 1990s in cult classics like *Dazed and Confused* and *Adventures in Babysitting*.
His defining role came in 1996 as Mark Cohen, the filmmaker and narrator in Jonathan Larson's Pulitzer Prize-winning musical, *Rent*. This role cemented his status as a Broadway legend and a voice for a generation.
The 2025 Stage Triumphs: Broadway Reunions and New Roles
The year 2025 is proving to be a highly active period for Anthony Rapp, with numerous high-profile stage and concert appearances on his schedule, demonstrating his enduring commitment to live performance.
A *Rent* Reunion: Adam Pascal & Anthony Rapp: In Resonance
Fans of the original *Rent* cast have reason to celebrate, as Rapp is reuniting with his longtime friend and co-star, Adam Pascal (who played Roger Davis), for a series of concerts. The show, titled "Adam Pascal & Anthony Rapp: In Resonance," is scheduled for October 2025 at venues like the Samueli Theater, featuring songs from their extensive careers, including beloved hits from *Rent* and other projects.
This reunion also extends to a World AIDS Day benefit concert in November 2025, underscoring the enduring social impact of the original musical and the actors' commitment to activism.
Major New Stage Productions
Rapp is diversifying his theatrical portfolio with several new and classic roles:
- *Follies* (Chicago Production): He is slated to appear in a Chicago production of the classic Stephen Sondheim musical, *Follies*, showcasing his versatility beyond contemporary rock musicals.
- *NAVALNY*: Rapp is joining the cast of the play *NAVALNY*, an Off-Broadway production, signaling his involvement in politically and dramatically relevant new works.
- Lookingglass Theatre Company World Premiere: He is also set to star in the world premiere of a seasonal show with Chicago's Tony-Award winning Lookingglass Theatre Company, though specific details remain under wraps.
Furthermore, his dedication to the next generation of performers is evident. Rapp is scheduled to teach a master class to the all-teenage cast of "RENT: School Edition" in July 2025, sharing his unique experience with the musical that defined his early career.
The Legacy of Commander Paul Stamets and *Without You*
While his stage career thrives, Anthony Rapp’s impact on television cannot be overstated, particularly through his role as Commander Paul Stamets on *Star Trek: Discovery*.
A Trailblazing Character in Science Fiction
As Commander Paul Stamets, Rapp portrayed the franchise's first openly gay character in a leading role. Stamets, an astromycologist and engineer, was part of a groundbreaking on-screen same-sex couple with Dr. Hugh Culber (played by Wilson Cruz).
Rapp’s character arc, which spanned the show's run from 2017 to 2024, was praised for its authentic and nuanced depiction of a queer relationship in a major science fiction property, solidifying Rapp's status as a champion for diversity and queer-friendly representation in media.
The Intimacy of *Without You*
Beyond his acting, Rapp is a respected writer. His 2006 New York Times bestselling memoir, *Without You*, offers an intimate look at his life during the height of *Rent*'s success. The book details the exhilarating journey of the original Broadway cast alongside the personal tragedy of losing his mother to cancer.
The memoir is a powerful exploration of love, loss, discovering his sexuality, and the tension between public triumph and private grief, giving fans a deeper understanding of the man behind the iconic roles.
Addressing the Kevin Spacey Civil Lawsuit
A significant, though challenging, chapter in Anthony Rapp's public life involved his civil lawsuit against actor Kevin Spacey. The case stemmed from Rapp's allegation that Spacey made an unwanted sexual advance toward him in 1986 when Rapp was 14 years old.
The civil trial, which took place in 2022, was a high-profile media event where Rapp sought $40 million in damages. After testimony from both actors, a federal jury in New York found Kevin Spacey not liable for battery.
Despite the verdict, Rapp’s decision to speak out was widely seen as a catalyst for the broader #MeToo movement within the entertainment industry, making him a central figure in the conversation about accountability and the protection of young performers. His public statement following the verdict reflected his commitment to standing up for himself and others.
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