Tony Nominations Snubs and Surprises: Lea Michele Left Out, ‘Titaníque’ Shines

Key Points:

• The 2025-26 Tony Awards season featured fewer eligible shows than the previous year, with 30 productions compared to 42, leading to unexpected nominations including the musical tribute "Schmigadoon!" and the vampire-themed "The Lost Boys."
• Notable absences among nominees included several high-profile celebrities such as James Corden, Neil Patrick Harris, Taraji P. Henson, Keanu Reeves, and Adrien Brody, highlighting a shift away from star-driven nominations this year.
• Leading female musical roles were limited this season, resulting in underwhelming nominations for women, with notable omissions like Lea Michele and Kristin Chenoweth sparking speculation about a possible "diva backlash."
• Former "Saturday Night Live" cast members Rachel Dratch and Ana Gasteyer earned nominations for featured actress in a musical, continuing a trend of SNL alumni being recognized by the Tonys.
• The Tonys showed a preference against bleak or grim productions this year, with several serious-themed shows receiving few or no nominations, while design categories saw a notable presence of female nominees, especially in lighting design.