Cole Escola Opens Up About Surprise Tony Awards Tribute Gown for Bernadette Peters
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In a recent interview with ‘Late Night with Seth Meyers’, actor Cole Escola shared insights into the creation of their show-stopping tribute gown for the 2025 Tony Awards. The gown was a custom design by Wiederhoeft, inspired by the iconic look worn by Bernadette Peters at the 1999 Tonys. Escola, known for their role in ‘Oh Mary!’, explained the sentimental significance behind the gown and the decision not to inform Peters beforehand.
The custom Wiederhoeft gown, described as “Cinderella blue” and adorned with glass beads, faceted crystals, and metal sequins, was a nod to Peters’ award-winning attire from over two decades ago. The homage to Peters’ timeless style was a way for Escola to pay respect to the legendary actress and create a special moment for themselves at the prestigious event.
During the interview, host Seth Meyers queried Escola about their motive behind choosing Peters’ look for the tribute. Escola shared that while part of them hoped for luck by emulating Peters, the deeper reason was to capture a “formative moment” that celebrated Peters’ beauty and grace. The gown symbolised a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Escola to shine and honour a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
Escola admitted to keeping the gown a secret from Peters, fearing a potentially awkward reaction from the actress. However, Peters responded graciously to the tribute, commending Escola’s appearance and offering humorous remarks about their chest hairs. The interaction between the two performers added a light-hearted touch to the heartfelt homage paid by Escola on the Tony Awards stage.
In addition to the tribute to Bernadette Peters, Escola’s outfit also featured a nod to British actress Laura Keene, known for her role in ‘Our American Cousin’. Keene’s significance in history, particularly in relation to President Abraham Lincoln’s assassination, added layers of depth to Escola’s ensemble, showcasing a blend of fashion, history, and storytelling on the red carpet.
The designer of the gown, Jackson Wiederhoeft, shared insights into the creative process behind Escola’s dress, citing themes of femininity, age-old elegance, and regal influences. The intricate details of the gown reflected Escola’s desire to embody a sense of mystery and sophistication, further enhancing the storytelling aspect of their red carpet appearance.
Escola’s win for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Play added another layer of significance to the evening, as they not only paid tribute to Peters but also garnered recognition for their own talent and artistry. The combination of homage, humour, and humility showcased by Escola at the Tony Awards underscored the importance of celebrating individuality and creativity in the entertainment industry.
As the spotlight fades on the 2025 Tony Awards, Cole Escola’s tribute gown for Bernadette Peters remains a memorable moment in fashion and entertainment history. The fusion of past and present, personal and professional, in Escola’s red carpet ensemble serves as a testament to the power of storytelling through style and the enduring influence of iconic figures like Peters in shaping creative expression on stage.