Newcomer Brody Grant Shines in 'The Outsiders' Musical on Broadway: Key Facts Revealed

Brody Grant Makes His Broadway Debut in The Outsiders Musical

Brody Grant. Bruce Glikas/Getty Images

Broadway newcomer Brody Grant is here to stay, despite the saying that "nothing gold can stay."

Grant is just one of the many talented cast members who are making their Broadway debut in the musical version of The Outsiders. The show is set to officially open on Thursday, April 11th. This new production, with Angelina Jolie as one of the producers, originally premiered at La Jolla Playhouse in California before moving to New York City.

Grant couldn't contain his excitement when he appeared on Good Morning America on Tuesday, April 9. He expressed how grateful and privileged he feels to be in the Broadway spotlight. He mentioned that he is trying to take it all in and appreciate the moment.

He acknowledged that his journey to playing Ponyboy Curtis, the youngest brother in the family, was not a short one. Grant pointed out that he did not have a formal arts education, but he was fortunate to have amazing teachers and a supportive family by his side.

Playing the role of Ponyboy in The Outsiders movie is a significant moment for me. It holds a special place in my heart. When my mom was in high school, she had pictures of the cast on her locker. It was a story that meant a lot to her.

The Outsiders, released in 1983, features C. Thomas Howell as Ponyboy, along with Emilio Estevez, Matt Dillon, Tom Cruise, Patrick Swayze, Ralph Macchio, and Diane Lane. This coming-of-age film is based on S.E. Hinton's novel from 1967, depicting the rivalry between the Greasers and the Socs in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Grant, reflecting on the impact of Hinton's book, shared with Playbill before the show's debut on opening night. He mentioned how the story has been cherished by readers since 1967, but there are fresh opportunities in the show to explore the characters in a new light.

Recalling his conversation with Hinton, Grant mentioned how she believes that the story's message is more important than the person delivering it. According to her, the story has always existed, and she was simply chosen to share it. Grant feels a similar sense of purpose in bringing the story to life in the show, believing that both he and Hinton were destined to collaborate on this project.

Scroll down to learn more about Grant ahead of his Broadway debut in The Outsiders:

His Connection to ‘The Outsiders’ Book

Grant shared with Playbill that the first novel he ever completed was Hinton's book. It wasn't a school assignment but a copy given to him by his mother, who was a big fan of the novel and the movie adaptation.

Brody Grant Makes His Broadway Debut in The Outsiders Musical

Grant not only feels a strong connection to the book but also relates deeply to the character he plays on stage. In an interview with Broadway.com in April, he shared, "It’s not always cool to be artistic. It’s cool to be tough. It’s cool to be macho. That’s what’s beautiful about Ponyboy. Even though he is born in this environment, on the inside, he’s just an artist."

Discovering His Role

When Grant initially joined The Outsiders musical, he didn't take on the role of the young protagonist and narrator right away. Instead, he started off playing Sodapop. After a six-week workshop, Grant realized that he connected more with Ponyboy. He shared with Playbill, "I find solace with other people who can't fit into the thing that is expected of them."

He’s Released His Own Music

Along with his budding Broadway career, Grant has produced music as a solo artist. His song “Still Breakin Up” was released in November 2023.

Brody Grant Makes His Broadway Debut in The Outsiders Musical

Brody Grant. Bruce Glikas/Getty Images

"Just dug this one out of the vault!" he shared on Instagram. "When I hit the studio, I was inspired by artists like Cage The Elephant, The Doobie Brothers, and Bruno Mars. We ended up creating something fresh and bold, with a mix of emotions and a pop vibe."

He continued, "I enjoy blasting it in the car. Give it a listen, you might like it too."

He Found His Own Johnny Cade

Ponyboy’s friendship with fellow Greaser Johnny is a key factor in the novel. On stage, Grant’s bond with costar Sky Lakota-Lynch is palpable.

Brody Grant Makes His Broadway Debut in The Outsiders Musical

Sky Lakota-Lynch and Brody Grant. Bruce Glikas/Getty Images

His sister inspired Grant to sing.

Grant admired singers like Adam Lambert and Bruno Mars as a kid. He used to sing along to their songs, like "When I Was Your Man," into pillows late at night. However, his love for music was sparked by his sister.

He spent hours in the car trying to match his sister's harmonies. His mom would play the radio and encourage him to sing the main melody.

Editor's P/S:

Brody Grant's journey to Broadway is a testament to the power of following one's dreams. Despite not having a formal arts education, Grant's talent and passion have brought him to the pinnacle of the theater world. His connection to "The Outsiders" is particularly poignant, as it was the first novel he ever completed and a story that holds a special place in his heart. Grant's portrayal of Ponyboy Curtis promises to bring a fresh perspective to the beloved character, highlighting the importance of embracing one's individuality even in the face of societal expectations.

Grant's musical endeavors outside of Broadway are also noteworthy. His song "Still Breakin Up" showcases his versatility as an artist and his ability to blend different genres into something unique and compelling. His close bond with costar Sky Lakota-Lynch, who plays Johnny Cade, adds depth and authenticity to their on-stage friendship. Grant's journey is an inspiration to aspiring artists everywhere, proving that with hard work, dedication, and a belief in oneself, anything is possible.