Man Crush Monday: Leslie Odom Jr.

Leslie Odom Jr. has made a splash by playing Aaron Burr in the incredible, smash-hit musical, Hamilton. Before this star-making role, Leslie Odom Jr. has been on television (Smash, CSI: Miami, Person of Interest, and many others) and on stage (from Rent to New York City Center’s Tick, Tick…Boom!). He’s been nominated for a Drama Desk Award–and is nominated for a 2016 Tony Award. Simply put, the man’s got talent.

Aside from being graced with good looks, Leslie Odom Jr also has a voice like butter. One listen to any of his songs from Hamilton, and you’ll agree (see the sweet rendition of “Dear Theodosia” below). He will also be releasing a solo jazz album on June 10. It is sure to be filled with wonderful songs that let his vocals shine bright.

Leslie Odom Jr makes Aaron Burr one of the most interesting characters in Hamilton. He has a level of intensity, slight desperation, drive, and, on the other hand, softness. Odom combines them in a way that allows Burr’s humanity to shine through which gets audiences to really feel for him. He is magnetic. Although it is incredibly difficult to pinpoint one exact song from Hamilton to be called my favorite, Aaron Burr’s “Wait For It” is a contender. It is a perfect combination of Burr’s softness and intensity. Take a listen:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ReTP6x_sDiM

His genuine affection and respect for his fans shines through on his social media accounts. He constantly reposts fan art from Hamilton and always comes across as humble and gracious. Those are two qualities that seem to be a little more rare these days.

If all of that wasn’t enough to convince you how great Leslie Odom Jr is, check out the vlog series he did for Broadway.com (episode 1 is here). After watching those, you’ll see why he is our #MCM (and why he should be yours, too!).

Photo Credit: Leslie Odom Jr