Andrew Barth Feldman to replace Darren Criss in Tony-winning ‘Maybe Happy Ending' musical; shares stage with Helen J Shen
The musical follows the story of Oliver, a retired robot living in South Korea, and Claire, a fellow robot, as they explore emotional connection and meaning in their later years. Criss, who originated the role on Broadway in October 2024, became the first Asian American actor to win a Tony Award for Best Leading Actor in a Musical for his portrayal of Oliver.
Feldman joins longtime partner Helen J Shen onstage
Feldman will appear opposite Helen J Shen, the show's original Claire, who also happens to be his partner offstage. The couple will be joined by original cast members Dez Duron and Marcus Choi. Understudies Steven Huynh, Hannah Kevitt, Daniel May, Christopher James Tamayo, and Claire Kwon will also remain part of the ensemble.
Andrew Barth Feldman is set to join the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical Maybe Happy Ending | Credit: X
The casting of Feldman marks a shift in the musical's history. Originally developed and premiered in South Korea, this will be the first time the character of Oliver is portrayed by a white actor in a Broadway production.
Creators emphasize inclusive casting vision
The creators of Maybe Happy Ending — Will Aronson and Hue Park — along with director Michael Arden, acknowledged the significance of Feldman's addition to the cast.
In a statement, they shared, 'We fell in love with Andrew's take on the role of Oliver when he appeared as the reader in Helen J Shen's initial audition tape. To have him join her onstage at the Belasco is a special treat. Maybe Happy Ending is a story about longing for connection and the complexities of being human — and robot. These are universal themes that transcend backgrounds. We're proud to continue embracing exciting casting possibilities and to showcase this role as one open to different interpretations and lived experiences.'
Andrew Barth Feldman will replace Tony-winner Darren Criss | Credit: X
Tony award-winning musical continues its momentum
Maybe Happy Ending received widespread acclaim this season, taking home the 2025 Tony Award for Best Musical. The show also won in several other major categories, including Best Score, Best Book, Best Director of a Musical, and Best Actor for Darren Criss.
The production's story, centered around retired helperbots Oliver and Claire, has resonated with audiences for its emotional depth and themes of human connection in a futuristic setting.
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