Odom Jr. attended Julia R. Masterman School and later pursued his education at Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts. It was during his childhood that he developed a passion for singing, starting off in the church choir at Canaan Baptist Church. At the age of 17, while still in college, he began exploring his acting talents.
Career Highlights:
Odom Jr.’s journey in the entertainment industry has been filled with notable achievements. In 2004, he joined the ensemble cast of the renowned play “Jersey Boys,” followed by appearances in plays like “Keep Your Pantheon” and “Being Alive” in 2007. His breakthrough came with the Broadway production of “Leap of Faith,” where he portrayed Isaiah Sturdevant in 2012.
Collaborating with Lin-Manuel Miranda, Odom Jr. was part of the off-Broadway production of “Venice” in 2013 and worked on the production of “Tick, Tick… Boom!” the following year.
However, it was his portrayal of Aaron Burr in the 2015 Broadway production of the musical phenomenon “Hamilton” that truly catapulted him to stardom. This iconic role earned him a Tony Award for Best Actor in 2016, along with a Grammy Award for his contribution to the play’s soundtrack.
In addition to his work on stage, Odom Jr. has appeared in various short films and movies, including “Scarecrow Joe,” “Luna Goes Cruising,” and the war film “Red Tails” in 2012.
He also portrayed Dr. Arbuthnot in the 2017 film adaptation of Agatha Christie’s novel “Murder on the Orient Express” and is currently involved in the science fiction film “Needle in a Timestack.”
Television Roles:
Odom Jr. has made notable appearances on television as well. He first appeared as Joseph Kayle in the series “CSI: Miami” from 2003 to 2006.
He also played recurring characters in dramas like “Vanished” (2006) and “Smash” (2013) and portrayed Reverend Curtis Scott in “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” Furthermore, he has made guest appearances on shows like “Grey’s Anatomy,” “NCIS: Los Angeles,” and “Supernatural,” showcasing his acting prowess beyond the stage.
Music Career:
Apart from his acting endeavors, Odom Jr. has also made significant contributions to the music industry. In 2014, he released his debut solo album, titled “Leslie Odom Jr.,” featuring his captivating vocals. Two years later, he collaborated with Daveed Diggs on a cover of Selena Gomez’s “Good for You.”
His second album, “Simply Christmas,” a jazz album featuring interpretations of Christmas carols, was released in 2016. Odom Jr. frequently tours with his quintet, showcasing his musical talent and captivating audiences worldwide.
Writing:
In 2018, Odom Jr. added authorship to his list of accomplishments with the publication of his book, “Failing Up: How to Take Risks, Aim Higher, and Never Stop Learning.”
Through this book, he shares his experiences and offers advice to inspire young individuals to pursue their dreams and persevere in the face of challenges.
Personal Life:
Leslie Odom Jr. is happily married to actress Nicolette Kloe Robinson, known for her roles in the series “The Affair” and the off-Broadway play “Invisible Thread.” The couple met in 2008 while Robinson was auditioning for the musical “Once on This Island,” where Odom Jr. was working as an assistant director. They tied the knot in December 2012 and have two children together, daughter Lucille Ruby and son Abel.
Conclusion:
Leslie Odom Jr. is a multi-talented artist who has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. From his Tony Award-winning performance in “Hamilton” to his impressive film and television roles, he continues to captivate audiences with his talent and versatility.
As a musician, Odom Jr. showcases his soulful voice through his jazz albums, while his book inspires others to embrace resilience and pursue their dreams. Leslie Odom Jr.’s unwavering dedication to his craft has solidified his place as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
