Ryan McCartan and China Anne McClain Promise Their Glitzy Version of Broadway’s “The Great Gatsby” Is ‘Never Boring’ (Exclusive)

**China Anne McClain and Ryan McCartan Shine in Broadway’s The Great Gatsby**

The Broadway production of *The Great Gatsby* features a compelling new dynamic with China Anne McClain and Ryan McCartan at the forefront, intertwining their performances as Daisy Buchanan and Jay Gatsby. This marks McClain’s inaugural appearance on Broadway, while McCartan returns for his third stint in the title role.

Currently showing at the Broadway Theatre, this adaptation draws heavily from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel. McCartan, who first assumed the role of Gatsby in January 2025, noted that each portrayal of the character evolves with him. “Originally, I leaned on charm and emotional subtext to mask Gatsby’s sociopathic ambition. Now, I’ve shifted focus; the core of Gatsby is his mystique and wealth,” he explained.

The production follows the poignant tale of Gatsby and Daisy — former lovers separated by war and circumstance, only to reunite years later with Daisy already married. Gatsby has spent this time amassing wealth in hopes of winning back Daisy’s affection. McCartan describes his character’s relentless obsession as central to the performance, noting, “The pressure to reclaim Daisy never relents; it’s Daisy at the beginning, middle, and end of the show.”

In contrast, McClain brings a fresh perspective to Daisy, a role she feels was traditionally underexplored. “I wanted my version of Daisy to be transparent, revealing her inner struggles while maintaining an air of confidence,” she shared. At 28, McClain has opted to present Daisy as complex — a character imbued with hidden intelligence and wit, contradicting the tendency for her to be framed as merely a supporting figure in the narrative.

Notably, McClain is aware that her portrayal of Daisy, a character rooted in the early 20th century, pushes against historical conventions. “It’s empowering that art allows us to reimagine the past. I can be true to myself without conforming to historical limitations,” she stated. This perspective brings a unique richness to her performance that resonates with contemporary audiences.

As the production evolves, both actors find inspiration in their collaboration. McCartan observed changes in their on-stage chemistry even when he’s taken temporary leave from the role. “When I returned, I noticed new nuances in the relationship that had emerged during my absence,” he said, underscoring the dynamic, fluid nature of theatre performance.

Live theatre offers a unique entity where imperfections and spontaneous moments shape the experience, a sentiment echoed by both McClain and McCartan. “Performing live isn’t just about hitting the right notes; it’s about connecting with the audience and delivering the story authentically,” explained McClain, underscoring her growing appreciation for the immediacy that theatre presents.

McCartan, also enthusiastic about this aspect, remarked, “Each performance is distinct; every actor brings their interpretation. That’s what keeps the experience fresh and engaging.” He further emphasised the essence of storytelling over technical perfection, noting, “The beauty of *The Great Gatsby* lies in its imperfection; it reflects the human experience.”

The ensemble cast also features notable performers such as Corbin Bleu as Nick Carraway, John Behlmann as Tom Buchanan, and Linedy Genao as Myrtle Wilson. Directed by Marc Bruni, this production integrates a score created by Jason Howland and Nathan Tysen, with a book by Kait Kerrigan.

Premiering in 2023 at New Jersey’s Paper Mill Playhouse, the musical has since become a tremendous success, selling over a million tickets and enjoying a run of more than 900 performances on Broadway.

For those wishing to see McClain and McCartan bring their interpretations of this classic tale to life, tickets for *The Great Gatsby* are currently available. The production not only promises to capture the essence of Fitzgerald’s timeless narrative but also to deliver a fresh and diverse perspective through its leading performances.