- John Lithgow wins Best Actor for Giant, portraying a complex Roald Dahl.
- Lesley Manville and Imelda Staunton triumph with powerhouse performances.
- Fiddler on the Roof, Giant, and Benjamin Button lead with three awards each.
The 2025 Olivier Awards dazzled at London’s Royal Albert Hall with a night that celebrated the full spectrum of theatrical talent. Hosted by Billy Porter and Beverley Knight, the ceremony honored bold storytelling and unforgettable performances. Giant and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button emerged as standout winners.
The awards recognized not only individual brilliance but also the power of innovative staging and sound design. Fiddler on the Roof took home accolades for Best Musical Revival, Set, and Sound Design. Imelda Staunton claimed her fifth Olivier for Hello, Dolly! John Dagleish impressed with his role in Benjamin Button. The production also took home Best New Musical.
Olivier Awards 2025: Theatre’s Finest Celebrate Bold Stories and Iconic Performances
John Lithgow’s win for Best Actor brought a transatlantic flair to the evening. He was honored for his portrayal of Roald Dahl in Giant, a play that delves into the controversial facets of the famed author’s legacy. His performance was both haunting and human. It added a new layer to the children‘s writer rarely seen on stage.
Lesley Manville’s portrayal of Jocasta in Oedipus was lauded for its emotional depth and modern sensibility. Robert Icke’s reimagining of the Greek tragedy gave the story a contemporary pulse. With a Broadway run ahead, the production’s success at the Oliviers sets the stage for global acclaim.
Imelda Staunton continued her Olivier legacy by winning her fifth award for Hello, Dolly! Her interpretation brought both heart and grandeur to the classic musical, cementing her place as one of Britain’s most celebrated stage stars. Meanwhile, Benjamin Button was a breakout hit. It won Best New Musical and showcased the talents of John Dagleish in the lead role.
The event emphasized diversity in theatrical storytelling, from reimagined classics to biographical dramas and magical realism. Productions such as Fiddler on the Roof and Benjamin Button illustrated how classic and contemporary tales can thrive side-by-side. The night celebrated risk-taking, fresh vision, and timeless talent across every genre.
The 2025 Olivier Awards captured the vitality and versatility of modern theatre. The event featured powerful performances, bold themes, and a heartfelt celebration of the stage’s enduring magic.
“I think I’m going to faint,” said an emotional Lithgow, 79.
