Laura Benanti criticizes Zachary Levi for vaccine comments about Broadway co-star Gavin Creel

Laura Benanti Slams Zachary Levi Over Vaccine Misinformation About Gavin Creel

Laura Benanti, Tony Award-winning actress and Broadway icon, has spoken out against her former She Loves Me co-star, Zachary Levi, following his controversial remarks about the death of Gavin Creel. Benanti, appearing on That’s a Gay Ass Podcast, described her personal dislike for Levi and lambasted his use of Creel’s memory to promote vaccine misinformation.

“I never liked him,” Benanti revealed during the interview. “For him to use Gavin’s memory — a person he was not friends with — for his political agenda... F— you forever.”

Levi’s Controversial Comments
Creel, known for roles in Hair, Hello, Dolly, and Into the Woods, passed away in September 2024 at age 48 from metastatic melanotic peripheral nerve sheath sarcoma. Levi speculated on Instagram that vaccinations may have contributed to Creel’s death, stating: “You better believe that, with everything in me, I believe that if these COVID vaccinations were not forced on the American public...”

Benanti criticized Levi’s comments as insensitive and baseless, adding that he attempted to force emotion in his post.

A Strained History Between Co-Stars
Benanti also opened up about her strained relationship with Levi during their time in the 2016 Broadway revival of She Loves Me. “He sucked up all the energy in the room,” she said, referring to his behavior backstage, including organizing unwelcome “dance parties.”

Reactions to Levi’s Remarks
Levi has faced backlash for his vaccine-related comments, reigniting debates over misinformation and its impact on public health. Representatives for both Levi and Benanti have not issued further statements.

Remembering Gavin Creel
Gavin Creel, a celebrated actor and singer, remains a beloved figure in the Broadway community. His legacy is defined by his groundbreaking performances and contributions to musical theater.

This ongoing controversy highlights the importance of respectful discourse and honoring the memory of those who have passed without politicizing their deaths.