But let’s not box him in as just Burr. The man has released three jazz albums. Three. He covered “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” with a lounge-singer swagger that would make Frank Sinatra jealous. And he co-wrote a book called Failing Up, which is basically a guide to embracing your disasters. (I’d read it, but I’m still recovering from my last LinkedIn fail.)
Leslie Odom Jr. to return to Hamilton for West End debut - CelebMix
When he’s not playing Burr, he’s probably in a recording studio, sipping scotch, and turning show tunes into something you’d hear in a smoky bar. That versatility is why the West End run feels less like a revival and more like a victory lap. He’s not just repeating history; he’s rewriting the soundtrack. And we’re all just lucky to be humming along.
Should You Go? (Spoiler: Yes, But Bring Tissues)
Here’s the deal: if you’ve never seen Hamilton live, this is the cast to catch. Odom Jr. brings a depth that the original Broadway recording can’t capture—a kind of weary wisdom that feels earned after six years of fame, fatherhood, and a pandemic. Plus, London’s Victoria Palace Theatre has a bar that serves real hot toddies. (You’ll need one after “The World Was Wide Enough.” Trust me.)
My final thought? Leslie Odom Jr. in the West End isn’t just a performance; it’s a message. It says that some stories are worth revisiting, especially if you bring a new voice. And it says that patience—like Burr’s—can be a trap, but it can also be a weapon. Just don’t wait too long to buy a ticket. They’re already selling faster than Hamilton’s political ambitions. And that, my friend, is saying something.
