Tracee Ellis Ross Makes Broadway Debut in ‘Every Brilliant Thing’

Tracee Ellis Ross is set to make her debut on Broadway in 'Every Brilliant Thing,' a 40-page monologue crafted by Duncan Macmillan and Jonny Donahoe. The narrative revolves around a character who starts enumerating reasons to live following their mother’s suicide attempt, reaching the millionth reason by the end. Ross succeeds Mariska Hargitay, who took over from Daniel Radcliffe after his acclaimed Tony-nominated performance. The production premiered at the Hudson Theatre on July 7, 2025, and Ross will continue in the role until August 9. Initially showcased at the Ludlow and Edinburgh Fringe Festivals, the play has been translated into 66 languages and performed in 63 countries by 2024. A Golden Globe-winning actress and producer, Ross studied theater at Brown and draws inspiration from one-woman shows by Whoopi Goldberg, Lily Tomlin, and Anna Deavere Smith. The performance includes audience interaction, with spectators taking on roles such as family members and teachers. Ross emphasizes the importance of a Black woman portraying this piece, especially given the mental health challenges faced by Black Americans, including elevated suicide attempt rates among Black high school girls and lower treatment access for Black adults.