Audra McDonald is, without dispute, one of Broadway's most cherished stars, constantly dazzling audiences with her genius performances in musicals and plays alike. Currently starring as the legendary Billie Holiday in Lady Day at Emerson's Bar & Grill, McDonald recently broke a huge record, becoming the most recognized actor in the history of the Tony Awards.
Just in case you've totally lost your mind and forgotten why you fell in love with her in the first place, below BroadwayWorld brings you ten more reasons to love Audra McDonald.
1. She has created some of our favorite roles.
As perhaps one of the most recognizable names in modern Broadway, McDonald has created many of theatre's most cherished roles, including Sarah (Ragtime), Sharon (Master Class), and Marie (Marie Christine), just to name a few.
2. She is an advocate for equality.
Audra has always been vocal about standing up for marriage equality and LGBT rights, having supported Broadway Impact and Straight for Equality throughout the years.
3. She has the most iconic Broadway voice of this generation.
Really though, it speaks for itself...
4. She keeps her fans in the loop!
Audra is great about keeping her fans posted on all of the exiciting things going on in her Broadway life on Twitter!
Recent Retweet:
@jessetyler: With the queen, @AudraEqualityMc after her amazing play. The video is for us but we will let you see this picture.
5. Her solo albums are brilliant.
Over the years Audra has released a whopping five solo albums (Way Back to Paradise, How Glory Goes, Happy Songs, Build a Bridge, and Go Back Home)- each one is more perfect than the last!
6. She's beloved by the Broadway community.
Audra is loved not only by fans but by her Broadway community, having won six Tony Awards (more than anyone else in acting categories) and being the only person to win in all four acting categories.
7. She finds time for family.
Despite her busy life on the Broadway stage, Audra is a loving mom to her daughter Zoe, husband Will Swenson, and his children- Sawyer and Bridger.
8. She's still so humble despite her success.
She's breaking records left and right but she has never let that go to her head.
9. Today is her birthday!
Really though, if there was ever a day for some serious Audra-worship, it's July 3!
10. Have we mentioned that she has the voice of an angel?
Why can't Audra star in EVERY Broadway show?! It's just not fair.
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