Celebrity Info
Leslie Odom Jr. has had quite the journey in his acting career, and it all started with a series of memorable appearances across a wide range of popular TV shows. Back in the early days, Leslie Odom Jr. could be seen in guest roles on hit series like “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” which began in 1999, as well as the beloved “Gilmore Girls” that ran from 2000 to 2007. He also made an impression on crime dramas such as “CSI: Miami,” which aired on CBS from 2002 to 2012. Around that time, Leslie Odom Jr. continued building his resume with roles in “The Big House” (2003–04), the medical drama “Grey’s Anatomy” starting in 2004, and the legal series “Close to Home” (2005–07), also on CBS.
As the 2000s rolled on, Leslie Odom Jr. stayed busy with even more television work. He appeared in short-lived but notable shows like “Threshold” (2005–06), the family-centered “Big Day” on ABC (2006–07), and the long-running sitcom “The Bill Engvall Show” on TBS (2006–09). Fans might also remember him from thrillers like “Vanished” (2006–07) or lighter fare such as Disney XD’s “Zeke & Luther” (2008–2011). And yes, he even popped up in “NCIS: Los Angeles” beginning in 2009—talk about versatility.
In the 2010s, Leslie Odom Jr. kept expanding his range with roles in critically acclaimed series. He joined the cast of “House of Lies” starting in 2011, brought intrigue to “Person of Interest” (CBS, 2011–16), and performed in the behind-the-scenes musical drama “Smash” on NBC (2011–13). That same period saw him stepping into film, notably appearing in the 2012 action-packed “Red Tails” alongside Terrence Howard—a role that highlighted both his presence and depth as an actor.
And let’s not forget his voice work. Leslie Odom Jr.’s rich, compelling tone was featured in the historical documentary series “Stories From the Road to Freedom,” which aired on History from 2012 to 2013—an excellent fit for his powerful delivery.
While maintaining a consistent presence on screen, it was actually on stage where Leslie Odom Jr. truly made history. His breakout performance came in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s revolutionary musical Hamilton, where he originated the pivotal role of Aaron Burr. The performance wasn’t just praised—it earned him the 2016 Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical, solidifying Leslie Odom Jr. as a force in theater. And if that wasn’t enough, the same year he released his self-titled debut album, showcasing yet another dimension of his artistry. All in all, Leslie Odom Jr. has built a multifaceted career defined by talent, persistence, and undeniable charisma.
When it comes to Leslie Odom Jr.’s filmography, one standout in terms of critical reception is Hannah Waddingham: Home for Christmas (2023), which happens to be his highest rated movie so far. It’s interesting to see how Leslie Odom Jr. brings his talent even to special projects like this, earning solid praise from both fans and critics alike. On the other end of the spectrum, Leslie Odom Jr. was also part of Music (2021), a film that received notably lower ratings upon release. While opinions may vary, it’s clear that Leslie Odom Jr.’s performances continue to draw attention, with some roles resonating more strongly than others. Overall, tracking Leslie Odom Jr.’s work offers a glimpse into the highs and lows of modern cinema through the lens of a versatile actor.
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