George Clooney Breaks New Ground on Broadway with Historic Live Telecast
Hollywood star George Clooney has officially made Broadway history. His critically acclaimed play, Good Night, and Good Luck, was broadcast live on CNN and CNN.com on Saturday, June 7 — the first time a Broadway performance has ever been televised live.
This groundbreaking moment came during the show’s penultimate performance at the Winter Garden Theatre in New York City. Clooney, 64, stars as legendary journalist Edward R. Murrow, marking his much-anticipated Broadway debut.
A Historic First for Broadway and CNN
CNN confirmed that no live Broadway production has ever been broadcast in real time — until now.
“I can’t tell you how exciting it is to do something that’s never been done,” said Clooney in a statement. “CNN is the perfect platform to share this story of courage. Live TV. No net. Buckle up, everyone.”
CNN Chairman and CEO Mark Thompson praised the project, calling it both a tribute to a golden era of journalism and a timely reminder of the importance of a free and fair press.
Inside the Record-Breaking Production
Good Night, and Good Luck has taken Broadway by storm:
- Highest-grossing play in Broadway history
- First play to earn over $4 million in a single week
- Nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Leading Actor for Clooney
The play is directed by Tony Award winner David Cromer and adapted for the stage by Clooney and longtime collaborator Grant Heslov. The duo also co-wrote the 2005 film version, which earned them an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay.
Clooney’s Full-Circle Moment
This production marks a full-circle journey for Clooney. In the 2005 film Good Night, and Good Luck, he portrayed Fred W. Friendly and directed the movie, which depicted journalist Murrow’s famous 1954 confrontation with Senator Joseph McCarthy. Now, on stage, he steps into Murrow’s shoes himself.
Clooney’s Broadway performance is a rare live appearance, blending his film and television expertise with the raw intensity of live theatre.
Clooney’s Broadway Glow-Up (And Gray Roots)
During a June 2 interview on Late Night with Seth Meyers, Clooney humorously addressed the aftermath of dyeing his hair for the role.
“It’s bad,” he joked. “Still dark on top, but gray at the bottom.”
Sporting a hat to cover the awkward regrowth, Clooney admitted that fixing his hair is high on the list once the curtain falls.
What’s Next for Good Night, and Good Luck?
The show wraps up its limited Broadway run on Sunday, June 8. With massive critical acclaim and record-breaking box office numbers, many in the industry are already predicting future productions or a potential filmed version.
Among its five Tony nominations, the show is recognized for:
- Best Performance by a Leading Actor (George Clooney)
- Best Sound Design of a Play
- Best Scenic Design of a Play
- Best Costume Design of a Play
- Best Lighting Design of a Play
While Clooney has downplayed his chances of winning, the nomination cements his status as a force on stage as well as on screen.
Final Call: Don’t Miss Broadway History
Tickets for the final performance of Good Night, and Good Luck are still available — but going fast. Whether you catch it live or tune into highlights, this play is a landmark in theatrical and television history.
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