**Tony Award Nominee Balances Dual Roles in Broadway Revival and CBS Series**
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Ben Levi Ross, a rising star on Broadway, is currently reveling in the excitement of his first Tony Award nomination for his performance as Mother’s Younger Brother in the acclaimed revival of *Ragtime*. Just 28 years old, he describes his present feelings as “otherworldly.” His nomination coincides with a challenging but rewarding period where he has been balancing his stage role with a starring position in CBS’s *Elsbeth*.
Up until March of this year, Ross’s schedule was a hectic blend of eight performances a week and early morning filming sessions for the network series. “It was a crazy time,” Ross remarked in an interview. “On Mondays, which are typically days off from the show, I found myself waking up at 5:00 AM to film.” Ross portrays Teddy Tascioni, the son of Carrie Preston’s lead character, in the television drama, making his juggling act all the more impressive.
The actor’s experience is emblematic of the challenges faced by professionals in the performing arts. As he recalled, many days involved getting up before dawn to film scenes, followed by demanding performances in *Ragtime*. Fortunately for Ross, *Elsbeth* is staffed largely by fellow theatre professionals, a factor that helped create a supportive atmosphere. “The actors and crew were all theatre people, so they truly understood the significance of my role in *Ragtime*,” he said.
Despite his frenetic lifestyle throughout filming, Ross expressed gratitude for the timing of his television commitments concluding as the Tony Awards approached. This shift has allowed him to concentrate fully on his Broadway performance during a pivotal period in the awards season.
*Ragtime*, currently playing at the Vivian Beaumont Theater, has garnered substantial recognition, entering the upcoming Tony Awards ceremony with 11 nominations. Among those nominated are cast members Joshua Henry, Caissie Levy, Brandon Uranowitz, and Nichelle Lewis, all of whom contribute to this powerful narrative set in early 20th-century America. Ross’s portrayal of Mother’s Younger Brother captures a character’s tumultuous journey, reflecting a transition from aimlessness to fervent radicalism amid societal upheaval.
Reflecting on what attracted him to the role, Ross commented on the character’s significant transformation. “I’m drawn to characters with profound changes throughout a story,” he explained. “Younger Brother’s journey sets him apart from others I’ve portrayed. In *Ragtime*, the moments offstage allow the impact of his experiences to deepen the importance of his onstage presence.”
Having made his Broadway debut in the title role of *Dear Evan Hansen* in 2022, Ross’s current nomination signifies a milestone in his burgeoning career. He elaborated on the support he receives from his family, who encouraged his passion for performing arts from a young age, along with his boyfriend of over a year, who provides a calming influence after intense performances.
As the Tony Awards approach, Ross’s excitement is palpable. He views himself as already victorious, regardless of the ceremony’s outcome. “Our show has received everything we aimed for during this awards season; it’s truly amazing,” he shared.
The dedication and hard work he has poured into both his television and theatre commitments reflect an artist fully engaged in his craft. As Ross prepares for the prestigious ceremony on June 7, 2026, he stands as another testament to the vibrant and competitive landscape of the performing arts in New York City.
*Ragtime* continues to captivate audiences at the Vivian Beaumont Theater, while the Tony Awards, hosted by Pink, will be broadcast live from Radio City Music Hall, beginning at 8 p.m. ET on CBS and available for streaming on Paramount+. Regardless of the award results, Ross has already demonstrated that he is a performer to watch in the years to come.