Key moments
John Lithgow has officially opened in the much-anticipated play ‘Giant’ on Broadway, where he takes on the challenging role of beloved children’s author Roald Dahl. The play debuted at the Music Box Theatre on March 23, 2026, and has quickly become a focal point of discussion in the theater community.
‘Giant’, directed by Nicholas Hytner, explores the complexities of Dahl’s character, particularly his documented bigotry and the repercussions that followed. The runtime of the production is 2 hours and 20 minutes, including intermission, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in the narrative that unfolds around a pivotal moment in Dahl’s life during 1983, a time when he faced significant international backlash.
Critics have responded enthusiastically to Lithgow’s portrayal, with major outlets such as Variety and The New York Times praising his performance as extraordinary and a tour de force. One review noted, “Lithgow’s explosive turn captures Dahl at a pivotal 1983 moment when the beloved children’s author faced international backlash.” Such acclaim positions Lithgow as a frontrunner for the 2026 Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play, further solidifying his status in the theatrical world.
The play’s themes resonate deeply in today’s society, as Lithgow himself remarked that it is “alarmingly timely” given the ongoing discussions about bigotry and moral complexity. This relevance has sparked conversations among audiences and critics alike, making ‘Giant’ not just a play, but a cultural commentary.
In addition to his theatrical endeavors, Lithgow is set to appear in the upcoming HBO Max Harry Potter series as Albus Dumbledore, which is scheduled to premiere on Christmas Day 2026. This dual engagement in high-profile projects marks a significant moment in Lithgow’s career, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
‘Giant’ is expected to run through June 28, 2026, allowing ample opportunity for audiences to experience Lithgow’s acclaimed performance. The production has already won the Olivier Award for Best New Play, further enhancing its reputation and drawing in theatergoers eager to witness this remarkable interpretation of Dahl’s life.
As the buzz around ‘Giant’ continues to grow, initial reactions from audiences have been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing admiration for Lithgow’s ability to bring depth to a complex character. The combination of powerful storytelling and Lithgow’s compelling performance is likely to keep ‘Giant’ at the forefront of Broadway discussions for the foreseeable future.
