Darren Criss, the American actor and singer, is well known for his role in the viral sensation ‘A Very Potter Musical’, a parody he created during his undergraduate years at the University of Michigan. The musical, which cleverly parodies the Harry Potter series, was performed for a mere three days from April 9 to April 11 in 2009, but its subsequent upload to YouTube catapulted it to viral fame, garnering more than 42 million views collectively. Criss recounted this unexpected journey during a recent episode of ‘Dinner’s on Me’ podcast with host Jesse Tyler Ferguson.
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Reflecting on the surprising rise of ‘A Very Potter Musical’, Criss humbly stated, “It was a total accident.” Ferguson added, “For something to go viral in like 2009 or something was unheard of.” Criss elaborated on the organic nature of the experience, explaining, “No one’s aiming for it. The more you aim for it, the farther you’re guaranteed to miss.” What was intended as a fun project with friends turned into a cultural phenomenon, showcasing the unpredictable nature of viral success.
The success of ‘A Very Potter Musical’ was not only transformative for Criss but also for StarKid Productions, the theatre company established to develop the musical. The company made a significant impact on the musical theatre landscape, leading to the creation of several sequels, including ‘A Very Potter Sequel’ in 2010, ‘A Very Potter Senior Year’ in 2012, and an audio-only special based on their work, ‘A Very Potter Christmas’.
Despite his unexpected journey into the world of musical theatre, Criss, who majored in acting rather than musical theatre, expressed a sense of pride regarding his accomplishments. He noted, “If you had told me in college that I would be doing a musical on Broadway, I would’ve been like, ‘You’re f—ing high.’”
In 2012, Criss had the chance to step into the shoes of Daniel Radcliffe, the original Harry Potter actor, when he took over the role of J. Pierrepont Finch in the Broadway production of ‘How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying’. This casting marked a significant moment in his career, bridging the gap between the worlds of collegiate parody and professional theatre.
Interestingly, Criss revealed in his conversation with Ferguson that he and Radcliffe never discussed the parody directly, despite their brief interactions during the transition. “I think he was aware of it. You know, poor guy,” Criss remarked, with a hint of humour. He suggested that their conversations were largely centred around the logistics of the Broadway role rather than their shared connection to the Harry Potter legacy.
Criss’ trajectory from a college student performing a parody musical to a Broadway actor highlights the unpredictable paths that creative careers can take. It serves as a testament to the power of peer collaboration and the serendipity inherent in artistic expression.
Today, Criss stands as a multi-faceted performer, successfully balancing his work in television, theatre, and music. He remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, with ‘Glee’ and a varied range of film and television projects under his belt, further reflecting his diverse talents and versatility.
Darren Criss’ journey, from an opportune performance at a university to a celebrated career on Broadway and beyond, underscores the importance of creativity, collaboration, and the willingness to seize unexpected moments. As he continues to navigate the evolving landscape of entertainment, his roots in parody may well inform his future endeavours, even as he continues to build his legacy.