21 Year Old Makes Broadway History As Youngest and First African-American Jean Valjean | Playbill

News 21 Year Old Makes Broadway History As Youngest and First African-American Jean Valjean Kyle Jean-Baptiste, who was cast in the Broadway revival of Les Misérables following his graduation from Baldwin Wallace University, made history July 23 when he went on as Jean Valjean at 21 years old.

Playbill.com has confirmed that Jean-Baptiste is the youngest actor and first African American to have performed the role on Broadway, although there have been others who have played it in the national tour and other productions.

Prior to his Jean Valjean debut, Jean-Baptiste tweeted that he had "No words."

 

 

He also tweeted that he has planned dates to go on as Jean Valjean while original, Tony-nominated star Ramin Karimloo is on vacation and before Alfie Boe steps into the role Sept. 1.

 

Cleveland.com reported that Jean-Baptiste caught the eyes of Les Miz casting directors at his senior showcase, in which he performed a tune from Once and "Glory," the Academy Award-winning song from "Selma."

When he's not going on for Jean Valjean, Jean-Baptiste plays Constable and Courfeyrac.

 
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