Leslie Odom, Jr.
Leslie Odom, Jr. (born August 6, 1981) is an American actor, singer, and author. Best known for originating the role of Aaron Burr in Hamilton, he has since starred in film, television, and released acclaimed music.
Introduction
Leslie Lloyd Odom, Jr. is a multi-talented performer whose work spans Broadway, film, television, music, and writing. He first came to widespread public attention for his portrayal of Aaron Burr in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton, a performance that won him a Tony Award and Grammy Award.
Since then, Odom has built a diverse career—taking on dramatic roles (on screen and stage), releasing solo jazz and holiday albums, authoring a memoir, and returning to Broadway. His journey exemplifies how versatility, discipline, and authenticity can sustain a modern performing career.
Early Life and Education
Leslie Odom, Jr. was born on August 6, 1981 in Queens, New York.Philadelphia, where he was raised.
He grew up in a musical environment: his father was a Baptist minister, and young Leslie sang in church choirs and developed an early affinity for music.
He attended the Julia R. Masterman School and then the Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts.
For higher training, Odom studied musical theatre at Carnegie Mellon University, from which he graduated in 2003.
These educational experiences helped shape both his acting and vocal skills, providing a foundation from which he could move fluidly across stage and screen.
Career and Achievements
Broadway & Hamilton
Odom’s Broadway career began young: at age 17, he performed in Rent (as “Paul”) on Broadway.
His breakthrough came with Hamilton, first in its Off-Broadway incarnation and then on Broadway, where he originated the role of Aaron Burr.Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical (2016) and a Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album (as a principal soloist).
In 2025, he is returning to Hamilton in a limited engagement, reprising his now-iconic Burr role.
His performances in Hamilton not only earned awards but also elevated his public profile, enabling more opportunities across mediums.
Film, Television & Screen Roles
Odom has taken on a wide range of screen roles beyond the stage, including:
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One Night in Miami… (2020) — his portrayal of Sam Cooke earned him Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actor and Best Original Song (“Speak Now”).
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Harriet (2019) — he played William Still, the abolitionist.
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Murder on the Orient Express (2017) — he portrayed Dr. Arbuthnot in the Kenneth Branagh adaptation.
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Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022) — featured in ensemble roles.
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The Many Saints of Newark (2021) — appeared in this film tied to The Sopranos universe.
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Recurring in television — voice work in Central Park, appearances in shows like Abbott Elementary, and others.
These roles demonstrate his ability to cross from stage to screen, and to inhabit characters across genres.
Music & Recording
Odom is also a recording artist. He has released jazz albums, holiday music, and original songs:
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His self-titled jazz album Leslie Odom, Jr. was released (on his own as well as via S-Curve Records) and achieved chart success in jazz categories.
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Simply Christmas is a holiday album he released.
His singing background is deeply tied to his theatrical roots, but he carries a distinct voice and aesthetic into his recordings.
Writing & Other Ventures
Odom authored a memoir titled Failing Up: How to Take Risks, Aim Higher, and Never Stop Learning (2018).
He has also been involved in public speaking, advocacy for artists’ rights, and mentoring younger performers.
Artistic Style & Strengths
Leslie Odom, Jr.’s strength lies in emotional nuance, versatility, and musical intelligence. Some traits to note:
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Character complexity: His performances often bring depth, internal conflict, and vulnerability (e.g. Burr in Hamilton, Sam Cooke in One Night in Miami).
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Vocal expressiveness: He uses his voice not just for spectacle but to convey subtle shifts of tone, intention, and emotion.
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Blending music and narrative: In stage musicals, he navigates the intersection of story and song, making transitions feel organic.
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Adaptability: He moves between stage, screen, and voice roles with relative ease.
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Authenticity: His public persona often emphasizes respect, humility, and continual striving, which resonates with fans and collaborators.
His background in theatre ensures that even in non-musical roles, he carries a sense of discipline, pacing, and presence.
Personal Life & Identity
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Leslie Odom, Jr. has been married to actress Nicolette Robinson since December 1, 2012.
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They have two children: a daughter, Lucille Ruby, born in April 2017, and a son, Able Phineas, born in March 2021.
Odom often speaks about how fatherhood influences his perspective on roles, career choices, and legacy. In interviews around his return to Hamilton, he noted that his children will be able to see him perform a role that they were not alive to witness during his original run.
He also maintains a public posture of advocating for equitable treatment of artists, especially original cast members in long-running shows.
Legacy & Current Relevance
Leslie Odom, Jr. is already widely recognized as one of the notable multi-hyphenate artists of his generation: someone who can anchor a Broadway show, carry a film role, record music, and engage meaningfully with audiences offstage.
His legacy includes:
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Originating a culturally pivotal role — his portrayal of Aaron Burr in Hamilton is closely associated with that phenomenon.
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Bridging stage and screen — his success across mediums encourages a holistic view of performance.
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Mentorship and advocacy — through his writing and public voice, he models how artists might balance creative ambition with sustainable practices.
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Artistic ambition over comfort — returning to Hamilton again in 2025 illustrates his willingness to revisit formative work and bring new life to it.
As of 2025, his return to Hamilton is creating intense demand—ticket sales are surging, and critics are watching how his new life perspective might inform his performance.