Sean Hayes on "Good Night, Oscar"

In the new Broadway play "Good Night, Oscar," Sean Hayes, the Emmy Award-winning star of "Will & Grace," appears as the witty and eccentric musical star Oscar Levant, whose mental health struggles and addiction to drugs would come front-and-center during a 1958 appearance on Jack Paar's "Tonight Show." Correspondent David Pogue talks with Hayes about conjuring Levant on stage; and with Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Doug Wright about the darkness at the center of the play's central figure.
#SeanHayes #OscarLevant #GoodNightOscar #Broadway
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[@judd442009]

Sean Hayes transforms himself from "Just Jack" into "Just Oscar" and we love it. Powerful performance worthy of a Tony. award.

[@leonjohnson3501]

Yes and Yes!!!

[@11cabadger]

I never forgot Oscar. So happy he's being remembered by these very talented artists. He deserves it.

[@margaretgaal937]

Yes, Oscar is someone I always remember and his oneness with the piano. I was just mesmerized.

[@hnc52]

I saw the play last week. Pay no attention to the NYT review and go see this glorious performance by Sean Hayes.

[@melissaleistrabittner6069]

Sean Hayes can do it all - sing, dance, compose, play many instruments, act, write, produce. I absolutely adore him! 😍

[@slimelove3493]

Not to mention co host of the number one podcast on Apple!

[@elisabethlavery4473]

Saw this in its pre-opening week: Astounding in so many ways. Writing is fabulous, and Sean Hayes is super-human in how he portrays someone who is as mentally ill as he is brilliant.

[@sandraandrews9907]

Don't forget that got an Emmy nomination playing Jerry Lewis. No one could come close. 🎭❤

[@ric7044]

@@sandraandrews9907 And he just won a Tony for playing Oscar Levant!

[@sjinzaar]

I am proud of Sean Hayes and how far he has come as actor, businessman and gentleman.

[@daveclark8337]

and iHeartRadio nominee for Best Male podcast Host of the Year 2022.

[@kathleentyson6727]

Wow,two things I didn’t know ,I love both Oscar Levant and Sean Hayes ,but I had no idea that Levant suffered from mental illness ,and that Sean Hayes played the piano like that ….AMAZING .

[@CathyS_Bx]

I was a fan of Oscar Levant back in the day. I loved his dry humor in the movies and was fascinated by him in his odd TV appearances (though I sometimes wonder why his oddness didn't frighten me a little; I was just a kid). The first grown-up book I read was a book Levant wrote called The Memoirs of an Amnesiac; it improved my vocabulary! It's great that he is being rediscovered now, via this play and this stellar performance by Hayes.

[@maryannfelice6326]

I remember Mr Levant on Jack Parr's show as well as in films. Even as a child, I could sense he was a very unhappy man. I just didn't know particulars. I'm very pleased he is being so well-represented in Mr Hayes' performance. Thank you, Sean.

[@Mia7189]

Sean is from my hometown of Chicago, and I met him here at a fundraiser years ago. He was so nice and personable. He also has the most beautiful blue eyes I've ever seen.

[@lbputzer]

Met Sean when he was accompanist for the South Coast Chorale in Long Beach (consequently, I was already familiar with his talent as pianist). At the time, he was landing bit parts & commercials and on the cusp of scoring "Billy's Hollywood Screen Kiss" and "W&G". Sean was always kind, reserved, focused on his work, and unpretentious. When he showed up just a few years later as "Jack", I was gobsmacked at how he could do a 180 and portray such a flamboyant, extroverted person when the cameras were rolling.

[@patriciastrasburger8077]

Saw this yesterday it is fantastic. The cast does an amazing job but Sean is beyond words amazing. Don’t miss this performance ❤️

[@geraldineclarke5434]

I've NEVER forgotten Oscar. I absolutely loved him when I was a child which confused my parents. I so wanted to play the piano which wasn't in the cards at the time. Now in my retirement I'm finally going to make that happen. THANK YOU, SEAN, for giving me another boost to my quest to try to play like Oscar.

[@sudapl]

I also was completely facilitated by Oscar at a young age. I probably understood a tenth of what he and Jack Paar were talking about. But I could tell my dad, who was passionate about music, respected him. I guess that was enough for me.

[@sudapl]

Fascinated

[@geraldineclarke5434]

@@sudapl I think he gave me my perverted sense of humor (which was NOT encouraged in a girl-child at that time.)

[@sudapl]

@@geraldineclarke5434 Ha! I’m sure not! I wonder how Sean Hayes discovered him?

[@geraldineclarke5434]

@@sudapl I don't know but I'm very glad he did.

[@FrankDudgeon]

I remember as a young teen seeing the Jack Paar-Oscar Levant appearance that the clip about his "exercise" came from. That line floored me. Became a big fan, watched out for films with Levant and read some his writing, I would love to see this play - the idea of it being part of PBS's Great Performances in excellent. A trip to New York isn't possible for me. Kudos to Doug Wright and Sean Hayes for retelling the story of an important and complex talent.

[@22lilac57]

I saw this show yesterday. It was tremendous; Sean was tremendous!

[@bbrock7310]

Thank you for bringing Oscar Levant back into the limelight!🙏❤️

[@ggboot1]

Sean is INCREDIBLY talented. He really can do anything.

[@vanessaseymour2634]

This show premiered at Chicago's Goodman Theatre and I knew it would eventually head to Broadway. He should win the Tony for this phenomenal performance.

[@karenschardt6004]

The play and cast were spectacular!

[@stumack9755]

Tony awards all around.

[@HawthorneHillNaturePreserve]

AS IF I needed another reason to love Sean Hayes! ❤ The male Lucile Ball 😅 NOW, he has transformed and is barely recognizable. Not sure how he does it. BRAVO!

[@sudapl]

Thank you for sharing this story. Let us not forget the amazing Oscar Levant.

[@josephwatts314]

Sean: Never knew you were a wonderful, musician! Thanks for all the laughs over the years!

[@Bobainthome]

Saw this the second night... It was beyond good... He blew away the audience. At the beginning of play the usher told us it's an hour and 45 minutes with no intermission; my partner and I looked at each other and winced. One hour and 45 minutes later it ended too soon...

[@TheMikester307]

Wonderful! I became a big fan of Oscar Levant 40+ years ago in college, reading about George Gershwin. I read his books at the library and lucked onto several of his albums. A stellar performer! I hope he is resting well. And Sean Hayes is magnificent! I say of him what I would say of Oscar: What a talent! We're lucky to have him!

[@stellarocquie7957]

WOW? Who KNEW he was such an amazing, accomplished pianist!!!! Phenomenal!

[@rr7firefly]

When Sean was much younger (2002) he played the role of Jerry Lewis in the tv movie "Martin and Lewis" -- I think that he will receive more attention and cleaner reviews in this newer role. That's a 20 year difference.

[@susanlueem8267]

Whenever I watch those old classic films, if Oscar was in it I knew there would be funny and extremely witty humor. He was great.

[@sandyg.3454]

Thank you for shining a light on the brilliance and talent of Oscar Levant! I’m a huge fan of Oscar Levant. I Love musicals!!! I Love the musicals of the 1930’s-1960’s! I became introduced to these wonderful old movies because they would come on television on Saturday afternoons when I was a child. I didn’t know Oscar struggled with anything. Finding out in 2023 what those struggles were doesn’t diminish his talent and his brilliance!

[@cynthiamason4069]

Oscar Levant's book, MEMOIRS OF AN AMNESIAC is quite wonderful♡

[@erindurkin4441]

My mom saw him on Broadway today! It was her birthday surprise and treat!

[@jorgevillavicencio427]

What a great piece and how wonderful of Hayes to have jumped into such a difficult undertaking. Oscar Levant was a genius, and such as many geniuses before and after him, tormented and besieged by personal demons. I'm surprised he survived as long as he did. He was a chain smoker, we are talking 4 packs of cigarettes a day. Smoking even had to be written into his screen persona, it was in his contract. Again, we're talking about a time when tobacco companies had not fallen into the greedy practices of adding a bunch of chemicals to cigarettes. Pity I won't be able to see this amazing play. I hope Sean Hayes gets not only a nomination but wins that Tony.

[@deborahcohen7025]

I saw this production in Chicago and it blew me away. Sean Hayes blew me away. It was more than a year ago - maybe 2? - but I felt sure at the time that it was destined for Broadway.

[@northwoman639]

Saw it there also, at Goodman. Excellent! But this NY production…i feel like -(huddled out here in the still-frigid heartland) - seemed to slip under the radar. I only caught wind when .I heard today's Tony announcements.

[@kathysarmiento4652]

So talented AND award-winning podcaster❤

[@tylernix9854]

Saw this in their Chicago run. This show is incredible!

[@2Hearts3]

Sure wish i could get to NYC to see it-- huge talents showcased there by people who appreciate them. Glad it's happening; it deserves a sold out run 🎹👏

[@11cabadger]

I'm hoping they show it on "Great Performances" or, as someone else suggested, turn it into a movie. You are so right about the experience's value. (Brag: Once upon a time, I was lucky enough to eat at The Four Seasons & see Sir Ian McKellen & Tim Curry in "Amadeus". Next day we went to see "Sophisticated Ladies" with an all-star cast. Still remember every minute like it was last weekend.)

[@bobhess7036]

Saw him on Broadway tonight. He was absolutely stunning. He will certainly get a Tony for this role--it demanded so much of the actor. Also, the first time I have ever seen a mid-show standing ovation during a PLAY. Just incredible. Wow.

[@hollyappel4176]

Brilliant! Both of them.

[@kristinesanta6971]

I love Sean Hayes SO much and now I love him more! Geez... what a talent!! ❤❤❤

[@jaelinsmith5207]

CBS Sunday Morning 🌄 that Broadway News lighten my day.

[@lisafabrizio4467]

This needs to be made into a movie!!

[@DavidPogue]

That is a FANTASTIC idea!!

[@toddjaycomedy4536]

I saw this play the third night of previews. I wish I could see it again. I am now completely fascinated by both Oscar Levant and Sean Hayes. Amazing talents.

[@karenkoe7096]

I haven't forgotten Oscar. Never will. Pleased that someone chose to remember him this way.

[@maryrosekent8223]

Wow! I wish I could see this-I’ve been a film buff for 45 years and remember the irascible Oscar Levant in not only _Rhapsody in Blue,_ but also the very charming _Bandwagon_ with the luminescent Cyd Charisse.

[@seattlesusieq6945]

Can't wait to see this! Have tickets for my visit to NY in June.

[@barbarap2207]

For those of us who will never be able to we it on stage, I hope they film a performance to stream on some platform. Sean Hayes is incredibly talented.

[@Fiawordweaver]

I love Sean Hayes

[@trikywu]

Congratulations to Sean Hayes - who just won the Tony award last night for this role. Beautifully done!

[@karenwalter1417]

I noticed Oscar Levant decades ago in those ol' black n' white flicks. He caught my eye & I started looking for him... I marveled at his humor, piano talent & those ever-present disgusting cigarettes. So glad Sean Hayes is doing this tribute to Oscar. Hail Oscar! Hail Hayes !

[@thomaswschaller]

one of the best things i have ever seen on stage. hayes is just brilliant - and the whole production is first rate

[@mrs.m6151]

What sweet souls, the both of them. Then and now

[@pablopaul6371]

Would love to see this Sean is so talented

[@rickandosca8262]

God, I love talent-Hayes and Levant-two great talents.

[@seamlab8870]

I didn’t forget about him. On re-runs and old movies his touching humanity and suffering came through. And his talent. Very perilous to inhabit a character like this. Kudos, Sean & Co.

[@disarray3714]

I didn't forget about him, either. He's a generation before me, but I always tune in when his films roll around on TCM. One odd non-musical gem is "The Ransom of Red Chief" in the O Henry anthology.

[@jannapeters8506]

One of my favorite shows!

[@KevinCovington5453]

SEAN? I KNOW YOURE READING THIS! 🤣 ...No doubt - Reading your KZbin comments, its the way you wind-down after the show, after you've played the piano for a few minutes. WE LOVE YOU! CONGRATULATIONS! 😎

[@CliveNDerek]

Not everyone has forgotten Oscar Levant. He was before my time, but luckily I've been exposed to artists who came before my time. It's limiting to have only contemporary interests.

[@CatsBestFinds59]

I'd love to see that show. Sounds very interesting. Sean Hayes is amazing. 👏👏👏

[@melaniewalters8181]

Thank you, Sean. You are a gem.

[@TinaTia-eq2kh]

We love Sean Hayes and Will & Grace show!!!

[@HawthorneHillNaturePreserve]

Sean Hayes is a genius❤

[@edithlazenby5839]

WOW!! Perfect!!!

[@saralynfosnight5139]

I remember Oscar Levant. I was a big fan when I was younger.

[@phoenixjd9690]

Congratulations Sean Hayes

[@annepokras551]

Hope it's recorded so we can watch it in the future online!

[@user-lq7uq4vv8r]

So wanted to see this, but alas... Was always a fan of Levants keyboard artistry and venomous humor. Discovered Hayes was one of those genius actors when he played Larry Fine. Had missed the opening credits, and was amazed at the accuracy and nuance of his performance for nearly an hour before realizing it was (the great) Sean Hayes.

[@lizabethhealy5803]

Brilliant, as always. ❤

[@carmelaszymanski8232]

Proud of this Gentleman And Gentle Man.. Well done Sir, We'll Done bid THANK YOU

[@bitchn_betty]

Ohhh WOW!!! He is fabulous and has such an incredibly deep well of talent!! Just Jack! Aka just Oscar!!! Rock on !

[@juliasmithe]

Love Sean Hayes’ brilliance!

[@annaharlan7460]

I did not know he played the piano. I just love him.

[@esmeraldamahoney575]

Love you Jack or Sean, you are just amazing ❤❤❤❤

[@terrywestbrook-lienert2296]

Sean Hayes is terrific as the acid tongued Oscar Levant, going by the outtakes I see here.

[@MrJoeybabe25]

Despite the pills, mental illness (or maybe because of it) Oscar Levant was one of America's great wits. He was so well known for appearing on Jack Paar's "Tonight" show that it seems like wrong information that IMdB only lists him as a guest five times between 1958 and 1960. So very little trace on tape or kinescope remains of Paar's "Tonight" that it is almost impossible to get a good grip of Levant other than by reading about him.

[@dorothybobo5157]

What an amazing subject, actor and writer.

[@chrismorrison2805]

I love them both! Win win all around!

[@RW-ob4en]

Fantastic idea!!!

[@pushpak]

Love OL, thanks for doing this Sean et al.

[@hwizell7478]

Oscar Levant 🙏

[@angelinainhollywoodland9023]

First of all this is genius and I can't wait to see it. Next: From the snippet you showed where Oscar gets a leave to appear on The Jack Paar Show, the actor who played Jack Paar, I feel (just a note here) that he says his line, which is "Really?!" (perhaps eagerly) a beat and a half too quickly! (Even if you look at the original footage, Jack Paar himself, knew to wait for the laugh, let's face it, that's what made him Jack Paar.) I feel he ought to have held back. However, the play is new and so is the rhythm of it. Really good to see Sean Hayes and doing something so great.

[@ragantate3995]

Yay Sean! Do tha damn thang! ✨💜✨

[@leebeaven9382]

Bravo🎉

[@Hmurr1515]

PERFECTTTTTT CASTING

[@probi99]

Fascinating

[@Kimbaface]

Congratulations to Sean Hayes on his Tony nomination!

[@RonnelsStampStudio]

Sean did win the Tony tonight!

[@sclogse1]

You need to read Oscar's books. And he has the best line in the film Humoresque.

[@MissPerriwinkle]

so eager to see it.

[@mellodeed8550]

Love this huy

[@chrisfinch8637]

Whatever you do, do not shake Sean Hayes’ hand at 9:02am, because if you do, you’ll end up like Jim McFlinagan, because he got FIIIIIIRRRRRRRREEEEEEDDDDD-UH!

[@janeavila7177]

Love Sean! I watched Will N Grace to see Jack and Karen!

[@JGHMusic]

Saw this show last week. Electric.

[@mariaroldan4200]

Love Sean

[@yvonnecooper5004]

I want to see this..I hope Sean wins . He is an alum of Illinois State University.

[@mlbrooks4066]

I'd watch Oscar on tv talk shows and just loved the man. There was something brilliant and something pathetic about him at the same time. I didn't get to see Sean Hayes portray him - how about a film of this play, somebody? It's begging for a wider audience.

[@adelaferreira4575]

Oh Sean you are to pretty and yet such fine actor ,and so talented !

[@GrotrianSeiler]

I think Sean Hayes is more talented than he is given credit for.

[@joeybaseball7352]

When did Sean Hayes get old?

[@Sunshine-zm1fx]

He grew old along with the rest of us.

[@veggigoddess]

So pathetic that Hollywood is about 30 years behind and realizing his immense talent. He should have been a leading man in some regard, this entire time!

[@TiggyTabbycat]

Something that would be worth seeing

[@Sandy83]

I wish I saw it, I didnt know it was a limited run

[@Mark.G475]

Just Jack is great!