Josh Gad and Andrew Rannells are reuniting to reprise their iconic roles from "Book of Mormon" for the 2026 Tony Awards. The musical, created by Trey Parker, Matt Stone, and Robert Lopez, marks its 15th anniversary this year. The show made Broadway history in 2011 when it captured nine Tony Awards, including the prize for best musical, cementing its status as one of the most successful stage productions in recent memory.
Gad and Rannells' return to these roles represents a significant moment for the Tony Awards telecast. Their chemistry as Elder Price and Elder Cunningham helped drive "Book of Mormon" into the cultural conversation when it debuted, blending sharp satire with genuine emotional depth. The show's irreverent humor and catchy songs by Lopez proved irresistible to both critics and audiences, launching the careers of its leads while establishing Parker and Stone as major theatrical forces beyond their "South Park" empire.
The 2026 Tonys will leverage the nostalgia and goodwill surrounding "Book of Mormon" to attract viewers to what remains one of television's marquee award shows. Broadway relies heavily on star power and memorable moments during the telecast to drive engagement, and reuniting these two performers offers exactly that kind of draw. Their 2011 performances became iconic, and the prospect of seeing them return to these characters carries natural appeal.
This appearance also underscores "Book of Mormon's" enduring relevance on Broadway. Though the show closed its original run in early 2023 after more than a decade, its cultural footprint persists. A touring production continues to introduce new audiences to the material, and the creative team remains active. The 2026 ceremony gives the show another moment in the spotlight during a year when Broadway celebrates its recovery and expansion following pandemic-era closures.
The Tony