So you've probably seen that guy with the killer smile and razor-sharp comedic timing popping up everywhere – Andrew Rannells. Maybe you know him from Girls, or that hilarious neighbor in 2 Broke Girls, or perhaps you're a Broadway nut who still gets chills thinking about his Evan Hansen. Finding all his stuff? That's trickier than it should be. Let's fix that.
I remember binging The New Normal years ago and being blown by how he could make you laugh and tear up in the same scene. Then he just... vanished from my radar until Black Mirror shocked me with his dramatic chops. That's the thing about Andrew Rannells movies and TV shows – he jumps between genres like a pro, and keeping track feels like playing catch-up. Let's unpack everything worth watching.
Andrew Rannells TV Career: From Sitcoms to Sci-Fi
Rannells didn't just appear out of nowhere. His TV journey started with tiny roles (remember that Law & Order: SVU appearance in 2004?), but let's focus on the stuff where he actually gets to shine. What makes his TV work special? He brings this Broadway-level energy even to small screen parts, making even minor characters unforgettable.
Essential Andrew Rannells TV Roles You Can't Miss
| TV Show | Role | Years | Why It Stands Out | Where to Watch |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Girls (HBO) | Elijah Krantz | 2012-2017 | Scene-stealing narcissistic ex-boyfriend with killer one-liners | Max (HBO) |
| 2 Broke Girls (CBS) | Elijah Krantz | 2014-2015 | Same character name, totally different vibe - pure sitcom gold | Hulu |
| Black Mirror (Netflix) | Paul | 2019 | Haunting dramatic turn in "Striking Vipers" (Season 5) | Netflix |
| The New Normal (NBC) | Bryan Collins | 2012-2013 | Breakout lead role showcasing vulnerability and humor | Not on major streamers (DVD/Apple TV) |
| Big Mouth (Netflix) | Matthew (Voice) | 2017-Present | Voice acting brilliance as the sarcastic, gay teen ghost | Netflix |
Fun fact: Rannells playing two different 'Elijahs' on two major networks simultaneously is peak chaotic actor energy.
His range still blows my mind. Broadway belter one minute, sci-fi brooder the next. That Black Mirror episode? Completely changed how I saw him. The scene where his character grapples with virtual reality confusion – no songs, no jokes, just raw discomfort. Proved he wasn't just a comedy guy.
Oh, and don't sleep on his voice work in Big Mouth. Matthew the Ghost might be animated, but Rannells injects so much deadpan sass you'd swear it was live-action. Seriously, try watching just one episode without cracking up at his delivery of "Oh honey, no."
Andrew Rannells Movies: Beyond the Small Screen
Movies are where things get interesting with Andrew Rannells. He hasn't carried a blockbuster (yet!), but he consistently picks fascinating projects or steals scenes in bigger ensembles. His film choices feel intentional – quirky indies, sharp comedies, and the occasional musical showcase.
Must-See Andrew Rannells Movies Ranked
| Movie Title | Year | Role | Genre | Watch For... |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Prom (Netflix) | 2020 | Trent Oliver | Musical Comedy | Showstopping "Love Thy Neighbor" number & pure charm |
| The Boys in the Band (Netflix) | 2020 | Larry | Drama | Powerful ensemble acting in landmark queer cinema |
| The Lovebirds (Netflix) | 2020 | Eddie | Action Comedy | Hilarious supporting turn in Kumail Nanjiani/Issa Rae vehicle |
| A Simple Favor (Fox) | 2018 | Darren | Mystery Thriller | Small but memorable role in Blake Lively/Anna Kendrick hit |
| Bachelorette (Weinstein) | 2012 | Joe | Comedy | Early film role showcasing comedic timing with Kirsten Dunst |
Okay, real talk: The Prom is essential viewing. Seeing him lead that big musical number reminded me why he's Broadway royalty. But The Boys in the Band? That's the one I keep thinking about. It's heavy – really heavy – but his performance as Larry, dealing with relationship turmoil in that pressure cooker apartment, is some of his finest acting. Not an easy watch, but worth it.
I was pleasantly surprised by The Lovebirds. He's only in a few scenes, but his "wellness cult leader" bit? Comedy gold. Shows he doesn't need much screen time to make an impact. Wish he'd do more outright comedies like this.
Where to Start With Andrew Rannells Movies and TV Shows
Drowning in options? Here’s how to dive in based on your mood:
Quick Start Guide
For Laughs:
- 2 Broke Girls (Seasons 3-4): His Elijah is pure chaotic sitcom joy
- The Lovebirds: Short, sharp, hilarious supporting role
- Big Mouth: Bite-sized animated comedy perfection
For Feels:
- Girls (Later seasons): Elijah gets surprising depth
- The Boys in the Band: Raw, emotional ensemble drama
- The New Normal: Heartwarming (and canceled too soon!)
For Musical Magic:
- The Prom: Full musical spectacle
- Hamilton (Disney+): King George III cameo - brief but iconic
Honestly? Start with Girls. It shows his range within a single show – starts as comic relief, evolves into something more complex. Plus, it’s easily accessible on Max. If movies are more your speed, The Prom on Netflix gives you singing, dancing, and charm overload.
I made the mistake of jumping straight into Black Mirror once. Big error. Needed some sitcom recovery time afterward. Lesson learned: know what you're signing up for with Andrew Rannells projects – the tonal whiplash is real!
Andrew Rannells Stage Work: Where It All Began
Can't talk about Andrew Rannells without Broadway. The stage is his roots, and it shows in everything he does. That vocal power? The physical comedy timing? Pure theater kid energy.
- Hairspray (2004-2005): His Broadway debut as Fender ("Nicest Kids in Town" ensemble)
- Jersey Boys (2006-2008): Played Bob Gaudio - showcased singing AND acting chops
- The Book of Mormon (2011): STARMAKING role as Elder Price. Tony nomination. Legend status.
- Hamilton (2015): Original Broadway King George III ("You'll Be Back" is iconic)
- Falsettos (2016 Revival): Heart-wrenching performance as Whizzer. Another Tony nom.
Saw him in Falsettos live. Still not over it. The way he handled "You Gotta Die Sometime" – chills. Literal chills. You can catch some bootlegs (shh) or the pro-shot snippets online, but it's not the same. Broadway fans argue: is Elder Price or Whizzer his best role? I’m team Whizzer, but it’s close.
Why does this matter for film/TV? Watch any interview – he credits stage work for his discipline. Those eight-show weeks teach you how to hit emotional beats night after night. Explains why even small film roles feel fully lived-in.
Upcoming Andrew Rannells Movies and TV Shows (What's Next?)
Rannells isn't slowing down. Here's what's cooking:
- Ending Things (Upcoming Film): Dark comedy with Toni Collette. Wrapped filming late 2023.
- Your Friends & Neighbors (Podcast): Hosts this rewatch show analyzing 90s/00s TV. Fun behind-the-scenes stories.
- Potential Book of Mormon Film Adaptation: Rumored for years. If it happens, he's likely involved (fingers crossed!).
That podcast? Surprisingly insightful. Hearing him dissect Sex and the City episodes reveals how sharp he is about storytelling. Makes me appreciate his on-screen choices even more. Hoping the movie rumors pan out – Hollywood needs more original musicals led by actual Broadway stars.
Andrew Rannells Movies and TV Shows: Your Questions Answered
Let’s tackle the stuff people actually search:
Is Andrew Rannells in any Marvel movies?
Not yet! He hasn't appeared in the MCU. Given Disney's love for Broadway talent (looking at you, Hamilton cast), it feels inevitable. Imagine him as a snarky villain or quirky scientist. Perfect fit.
Why isn't The New Normal streaming anywhere?
Ah, the eternal frustration. Rights issues likely (it was produced by Ryan Murphy for NBC). Sometimes pops up on Tubi with ads. DVD is your safest bet. Such a shame – it's key for understanding his early TV leading man potential.
What Andrew Rannells movies show off his singing best?
The Prom is the obvious answer (full musical numbers). But check out his Tony Awards performances on YouTube – especially Book of Mormon's "I Believe" and Falsettos' "I'm Breaking Down". Chills every time.
Is he actually gay?
Yes, Andrew Rannells is openly gay. He's discussed it in interviews and his memoir ("Too Much Is Not Enough"). He often plays gay characters (Girls, Boys in the Band, The New Normal), bringing authenticity without stereotyping.
Hidden Gems & Where to Find Them
Beyond the big names, Rannells pops up in unexpected places:
- Invincible (Amazon Prime): Voice of Robot/Reed Thompson (Seasons 1-2). Complex animated sci-fi.
- Welcome to Chippendales (Hulu): Supporting role as accountant Bradford Barton. True crime drama.
- Doctor Who (BBC): Noddy in "Voyage of the Damned" Christmas Special (2007). Super early blink-and-miss-it role!
His Invincible work is seriously underrated. Robot’s calm, calculated voice is so different from his usual energy. Shows off his vocal range beyond singing. Found it randomly while scrolling – best discovery in months.
Why Andrew Rannells Stands Out
After watching nearly everything, here’s what clicks:
- Genre Fluidity: Jumps from musicals to sci-fi to gritty drama effortlessly.
- Scene-Stealing Power: Even in small roles (A Simple Favor, The Lovebirds), he makes you remember him.
- Authenticity: Brings honesty to queer roles without falling into clichés.
- Work Ethic: Constantly balancing TV, film, stage, and voice work. Dude stays busy.
Is he always perfect? Nah. Some indie films feel like paycheck gigs. But even then, he commits. That’s the takeaway for me: whether it’s a Netflix musical or a tiny voice role, he shows up fully. Makes exploring Andrew Rannells movies and TV shows consistently rewarding. Now go watch something – maybe start with him belting in The Prom? You won’t regret it.
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