When The Phantom of the Opera arrived at the Majestic Theatre in 1988, no one knew it would become Broadway’s longest-running show. The chandelier, the romance, the mystery — unforgettable. But it was the original cast who brought this gothic love story to life and set the tone for decades of performers to come.
Here is where those iconic stars are now.
Michael Crawford (The Phantom)
There is only one first Phantom, and Michael Crawford set the bar at a level that performers still chase. His intensity, vulnerability, and soaring vocals created a Phantom who was both terrifying and heartbreakingly human.
After more than 1,300 performances, Crawford has returned to Broadway only once more, in Dance of the Vampires in 2002. He also performed on the West End in The Woman in White, The Wizard of Oz, and other major productions. Health challenges led to quieter periods, but his occasional public appearances remain moments of celebration in the theatre world.
A true Broadway legend whose shadow looms as majestically as the Phantom’s cape.
Sarah Brightman (Christine Daaé)
Sarah Brightman’s shimmering soprano and dreamlike presence defined Christine for a generation. She was ethereal, curious, and the perfect muse for Phantom’s dark devotion.
After departing the show, she launched a global classical-crossover career, recording chart-topping albums and touring the world. Brightman has the honor of performing the theme song for the Olympic Games twice, in Barcelona with “Amigos Para Siempre” and in Beijing with “You and Me.” Her duet “Time to Say Goodbye” with Andrea Bocelli is one of the best-selling singles of all time.
From opera houses to arenas, she turned Christine’s innocence into full-scale international stardom and is still performing today.
Steve Barton (Raoul)
Steve Barton brought a warmth and sincerity to Raoul that balanced Phantom’s gothic drama. His voice, charm, and grounded presence made Christine’s love story feel real and heartfelt.
He continued to perform widely across Europe and the United States, often working in Germany and Austria in shows such as Cats, West Side Story, Evita, Guys and Dolls, Dance of the Vampires, Beauty and the Beast, Jekyll & Hyde, and more. He was a respected leading man in musical theatre until his passing in 2001. His legacy remains deeply cherished by fans and colleagues alike.
Judy Kaye (Carlotta)
Judy Kaye entered Phantom with comedic firepower and vocal brilliance, turning Carlotta into far more than a prima donna punchline. Regal, ridiculous, commanding — she played it all with style.
She went on to become one of Broadway’s most versatile stars, winning two Tony Awards and dazzling audiences in everything from opera to musical comedy. Her career continues to shine bright.
Her Broadway résumé is packed, including On the Twentieth Century (Tony Award), Mamma Mia! (Tony Award nomination), Wicked, Ragtime, Sweeney Todd, Nice Work If You Can Get It (Tony Award), Anastasia, and Diana: The Musical.
Nicholas Wyman (Monsieur Firmin)
Nicholas Wyman played Firmin, one half of the overwhelmed opera managers caught between diva tantrums and paranormal chaos. His dry humor and authority made him a beloved part of Phantom’s world.
Wyman continued his career in theatre (Sly Fox, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, A Tale of Two Cities, Catch Me If You Can, Network) film, and television, and also took on leadership roles in the arts. His varied work reflects the same poise and polish he brought to the stage.
Cris Groenendaal (Monsieur André)
As André, Cris Groenendaal delivered impeccable timing, warmth, and just the right amount of controlled panic. He helped shape Phantom’s blend of grandeur and humor — and did it with charm to spare. After Phantom, he continued performing in opera and musical theatre, including Passion, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Ragtime, and Sunday in the Park with George, and became a respected vocal coach and educator. His artistry and work in many Sondheim musicals influenced a new generation of performers.