Best Leslie Odom Jr. Performances, Ranked
Leslie Odom Jr. is an incredibly versatile and talented performer whose artistry has graced stages, cinema screens, and televisions with unforgettable performances. Best known for his Tony Award-winning portrayal of Aaron Burr in the Broadway musical “Hamilton,” Odom’s career encompasses a range of roles that showcase his acting, singing, and dancing abilities. Let’s dive into some of his best performances, ranked.
1. Aaron Burr in “Hamilton”
It’s impossible to begin any discussion of Leslie Odom Jr.’s performances without first mentioning his extraordinary work in “Hamilton.” His complex portrayal of Aaron Burr brought a depth and relatability to a historical figure often simplified as a villain. His performance of songs like “Wait for It” and “The Room Where It Happens” are electrifying and have earned him critical acclaim, including a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical in 2016.
2. Sam Cooke in “One Night in Miami”
Taking on the role of legendary singer Sam Cooke in the Regina King-directed film “One Night in Miami,” Odom showcased not only his acting chops but also his vocal abilities. His powerful rendition of “A Change Is Gonna Come” is a stand-out moment that once again affirmed his ability to embody a character through both song and dramatic performance.
3. Dr. Arbuthnot in “Murder on the Orient Express”
In the star-studded cast of “Murder on the Orient Express,” Leslie Odom Jr.’s portrayal of Dr. Arbuthnot stood out for its subtlety and strength amidst a mystery that kept audiences guessing until the very end. Displaying solid chemistry with fellow cast members, he helped recreate the tension and drama of Agatha Christie’s classic whodunit.
4. Eamon in “Harriet”
In the historical drama “Harriet,” about abolitionist Harriet Tubman, Odom played the role of Eamon, adding layers to a story focused on courage and freedom. Though not as front-and-center as his more popular roles, his performance added an important dimension to this tale of American history.
5. Rev. Curtis Scott on “Law & Order: SVU”
Odom also had a recurring role on TV’s long-running crime series “Law & Order: SVU” where he played Reverend Curtis Scott across several episodes. His character’s complex intertwining with various storylines demonstrated Odom’s range to adapt to different genres beyond musical theater.
These performances are merely highlights within Leslie Odom Jr.’s thriving career, each one demonstrating his ability to captivate audiences regardless of medium or genre. As the actor continues to take on new roles, fans can only look forward to more unforgettable performances that showcase his profound talents as an entertainer.