If you are a fan of musical theatre, you might have wondered if Ben Crawford, the current star of The Phantom of the Opera on Broadway, is related to Michael Crawford, the original star of the same show. After all, they share the same last name and the same iconic role. But is there any family connection between them? The answer is no.
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Ben Crawford: A Rising Star in Broadway
Ben Crawford is an American singer and stage actor who was born in Tucson, Arizona, in 1982. He made his Broadway debut in 2006 as an understudy for Jean Valjean and Javert in Les Misérables. Since then, he has appeared in several Broadway and regional shows, such as Shrek the Musical, Big Fish, On the 20th Century, and Beauty and the Beast. He also played Mr. Salt in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory before landing the role of The Phantom in 2018.
According to his website, Ben Crawford has a BFA in Music Theatre from the University of Arizona and is engaged to his former-Phantom costar, Kelsey Connolly. He has two children from his previous marriage to Kate Crawford.
Michael Crawford: A Legend of Musical Theatre
Michael Crawford is an English actor, singer, comedian, and voice actor who was born in Salisbury, Wiltshire, England, in 1942. He started his career as a child actor in films and television shows, such as The War Lover and Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em. He made his Broadway debut in 1967 as Cornelius Hackl in Hello, Dolly! opposite Pearl Bailey.
However, he is best known for playing the title role in The Phantom of the Opera, which he originated in London’s West End in 1986 and on Broadway in 1988. His acclaimed performance earned him both the Laurence Olivier Award and the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical. He also starred in other musicals, such as Barnum, Billy, and The Wizard of Oz.
According to Wikipedia, Michael Crawford has been married once to Gabrielle Lewis, with whom he has three children. He has been in a relationship with Natasha MacAller since 1996. He is also a leader and public face for the British social cause organization The Sick Children’s Trust.
No Relation Between the Two Crawfords
Despite their common surname and role, there is no evidence that Ben Crawford and Michael Crawford are related by blood or marriage. In fact, Ben Crawford himself has confirmed that he has no relation to the originator of the role¹. They are simply two talented actors who have brought their own interpretation and charisma to one of the most iconic characters in musical theatre history.
