The popular TV show ‘Glee’ continues to hold a special place in the hearts of fans, even ten years after the final episode aired. The series, which debuted on May 19, 2009, followed the journey of Spanish teacher Will Schuester (played by Matthew Morrison) as he worked to revitalize the glee club at William McKinley High School. What started as a simple TV show evolved into a cultural phenomenon over the course of its six seasons, culminating in its conclusion on March 20, 2015.
Glee not only captivated audiences with its storyline but also dominated the music charts, with its soundtracks regularly topping the Billboard 100 chart. The show’s success led to a concert tour in 2010 and launched the careers of its stars, including Lea Michele and Darren Criss. Now, a decade after the McKinley High School glee club bid their final farewell, let’s take a look at where the series’ stars are today.
Lea Michele, who portrayed the ambitious Rachel Berry on Glee, transitioned to roles in projects like ‘Scream Queens’ and ‘The Mayor’ after the show ended. Her personal life was marked by highs and lows, including a tragic loss and a subsequent engagement and marriage to Zandy Reich. Amidst controversy in 2020, Michele faced accusations of inappropriate behavior on set, for which she later apologized.
Jane Lynch, who played the iconic Sue Sylvester, saw her star rise even further post-Glee with roles in ‘Angel from Hell’ and ‘Hollywood Game Night’, for which she won two Emmys. Lynch’s personal life also made headlines, with her marriage to Dr. Lara Embry in 2010 and subsequent marriage to Jennifer Cheyne in 2021.
Matthew Morrison, known for his portrayal of Will Schuester, continued to grace screens in shows like ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘American Horror Story’. His Broadway background shone through in his post-Glee projects, and he faced controversy in 2022 for unprofessional behavior on a reality TV show.
Chris Colfer, who portrayed fan-favorite Kurt Hummel, delved into writing after Glee, penning successful books in the Land of Stories series. His personal life blossomed with a decade-long relationship with boyfriend Will Sherrod, marking a milestone in 2023.
Kevin McHale, who brought Artie Abrams to life, explored music and acting post-Glee, with notable projects like American Horror Stories and a music album release. His announcement of his relationship with actor Austin P. McKenzie in 2018 added another layer to his personal journey.
Naya Rivera, beloved for her role as Santana Lopez, continued acting after Glee with roles in ‘Devious Maids’ and ‘Step Up: High Water’. Tragically, her life took a devastating turn when she went missing in 2020, with her body being recovered after a heartbreaking search.
Jenna Ushkowitz, known for portraying Tina Cohen-Chang, dabbled in acting and podcasting ventures post-Glee. Her personal life flourished with her marriage to David Stanley and the arrival of their two children, marking a new chapter for the actress.
Amber Riley, who charmed audiences as Mercedes Jones, ventured into reality TV with ‘Dancing with the Stars’ and continued to make waves in the industry with her performances. Her recent projects include winning ‘The Masked Singer’ and starring in ‘The Black Beauty Effect’.
This glimpse into the post-Glee lives of the series’ stars showcases the diverse paths they have taken since bidding farewell to William McKinley High School. From personal triumphs to professional successes, the legacy of Glee lives on through the continued journeys of its talented cast members.