Alden Ehrenreich Was ‘Learning’ in ‘Every Single Moment’ of His Broadway Debut: ‘It Was All New’ (Exclusive)

Alden Ehrenreich, known for his roles in major film franchises such as *Solo: A Star Wars Story* and *Oppenheimer*, is making waves on Broadway with his performance in the revival of *Becky Shaw*. The 36-year-old has recently received a nomination for the 2026 Tony Award for Featured Actor in a Play, marking a significant milestone in his career as he navigates the demands of live theatre for the first time.

In a conversation with PEOPLE, Ehrenreich expressed that stepping onto the Broadway stage felt like a new beginning. Despite his extensive experience in the film industry, he found the transition to theatre both intimidating and exhilarating. “It was all new; every single aspect of it,” he reflected, recalling the sense of being a novice that he last felt in his early twenties. Ehrenreich noted that while the foundational elements of acting remain the same, the day-to-day realities of performing in a play posed unprecedented challenges.

Ehrenreich’s portrayal of Andrew—a sharp-witted investment manager on a disastrous blind date with the character Becky—delves into complex emotional territory. Audiences witness Andrew’s inner turmoil as he grappled with his own flaws, employing cruelty as both a weapon and a defence mechanism. The character’s chaotic emotional landscape invites viewers to simultaneously empathise with and recoil from him, which Ehrenreich handles with remarkable skill.

Receiving praise for his performance, Ehrenreich described the nomination as thrilling. “I’ve loved theatre since I was a kid and have always wanted to be part of this community,” he shared. His collaboration with respected artists and fellow cast members, including Madeline Brewer as Becky, has been deeply fulfilling for him, nurturing his long-held passion for stage performance.

Directed by Tripp Cullman, *Becky Shaw* is a dark comedy penned by Gina Gionfriddo that challenges its characters and audience alike. Ehrenreich explained that the depth and complexity of the role were crucial to his attraction to the character. He appreciated Gionfriddo’s nuanced depiction, which allows for an understanding of Andrew’s actions rather than simply presenting him as “an a—hole.”

One of the significant aspects of working on Broadway, according to Ehrenreich, is the demand for emotional endurance. Describing it as “emotional athleticism”, he emphasised the need to maintain intensity throughout the rigorous schedule of eight performances each week. “That’s hard to keep up,” he acknowledged, as he strives to captivate audiences consistently, aware that every performance could resonate deeply with someone in the audience.

To cope with the sustained energy required for this live endeavour, Ehrenreich has adopted routines to help him transition away from the character after each show. “I’ll try to do a little yoga routine or have a drink,” he said, although he admitted that finding a reliable method for leaving the role behind is still a work in progress.

The breadth of talent in the cast, including Tony winner Lauren Patten and seasoned actress Linda Emond, enriches the production, which runs until June 14, 2026. A week before the conclusion of the play, Ehrenreich will find out if *Becky Shaw* secures any Tony Awards, including that for Best Revival.

Regardless of the outcome, Ehrenreich remains optimistic about his future in theatre. “I look forward to doing it again now that I know the ropes,” he said with enthusiasm. In addition to his Broadway ambitions, he is also involved in running the Huron Station Playhouse in Los Angeles, a venture he considers “his pride and joy”.

Since its opening in late 2024, the Huron Station Playhouse has aimed to nurture non-commercial, unique theatre projects. Ehrenreich has expressed a desire for the space to serve as a creative haven, free from the pressures of commercial success and a sanctuary for artists.

As Ehrenreich continues to make his mark in theatre, ticket sales for *Becky Shaw* are currently ongoing, with audiences eager to witness his celebrated performance. The anticipation around the upcoming Tony Awards, set to be held at Radio City Music Hall on June 7, adds a layer of excitement for both the cast and those who admire their work.