The 2025 Tony Awards crimson carpet reminded us that Broadway isn’t simply the place legends are made—it’s the place they strut. From the second Audra McDonald descended onto the scene, you knew the night belonged to her. The six-time Tony winner and rightful “Motha of the Tonys” gave us full Maleficent regality in a sculptural black robe with a purple practice that felt like high-drama opera meets high-fashion villainy. Not a single thread was wasted. Her presence was commanding with a dramatic collar that kissed the clouds and a silhouette that whispered, “I’ve conquered phases and now I’m conquering carpets.” There’s crimson carpet glamour after which there’s what Audra does—queen habits, rooted in theatrical class and unbothered excellence. She didn’t want a crown. The Tony stage is her throne.
However Audra wasn’t the one one dressed like he had a standing ovation stitched into each seam. Paul Tazewell—costume designer extraordinaire and the thoughts behind a number of the most iconic stage appears to be like of our time—stepped out trying just like the dapper architect of Broadway magic that he’s. Tailor-made to precision in a pointy swimsuit with a twist, Tazewell gave minimalist mastery with simply sufficient flare to remind you he’s behind the sartorial genius of Hamilton MJ the Musical and past. His look was clear crisp and assured—the sort of quiet luxurious that doesn’t shout however nonetheless turns heads.
The crimson carpet could also be a runway for actors however final evening the creatives behind the scenes reminded us they’re stars too. And truthfully? It’s about time the world sees the individuals who assist make Broadway shimmer from the wings to the highlight.
Check out a few of our favourite crimson carpet moments from the evening, then drop a remark and tell us—who shut it down in your eyes, and whose look would you borrow in your personal standing ovation?
