Anthony Deane Rapp originated the character of Mark Cohen in the 1996 Broadway production of Rent, a role he subsequently reprised for the 2005 film adaptation and a 2009 national tour. Born in Chicago on October 26, 1971, he emerged as a versatile performer across stage, television, and film, while maintaining an active career in vocal music.
Early Career and Education
Raised in Joliet, Illinois, by his mother, a nurse, after his parents divorced in 1974, Rapp engaged in community theater and junior high singing competitions. He attended Joliet West High School and the Interlochen Arts Camp. In 1989, he moved to New York to study film at New York University but departed after one semester. His professional stage debut occurred in 1981 in The Little Prince and the Aviator, followed by a screen debut in the 1987 film Adventures in Babysitting.
Broadway and Musical Theatre
Rapp secured the role of Mark Cohen in Jonathan Larson's Rent after auditioning with R.E.M.'s 'Losing My Religion' in 1994. Larson composed specific musical elements for Rapp's vocal range. Beyond Rent, he appeared as Charlie Brown in a 1999 Broadway revival and originated the role of Lucas in the 2014 musical If/Then. His other theater credits include the 2005 premiere of Feeling Electric, later known as Next to Normal, where he also served as an assistant director during its 2008 Off-Broadway run.
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From 2017 to 2024, Rapp portrayed Commander Paul Stamets on Star Trek: Discovery, recognized as the first openly gay character in the Star Trek television franchise. His filmography includes appearances in Dazed and Confused, School Ties, A Beautiful Mind, and Six Degrees of Separation. Additionally, he participated in the 2013 musical episode of the television series Psych and the 2000 film The Beach Boys: An American Family.
Memoir and Activism
In 2006, Rapp published Without You: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and the Musical Rent, detailing his relationship with his mother, who died of cancer in 1997. He adapted this book into a one-man show that toured internationally, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Rapp identifies as queer and has advocated for an open life, crediting his work with playwright Larry Kramer for shaping his commitment to social activism.
Legal and Public Activity
In 2017, Rapp alleged that actor Kevin Spacey committed sexual misconduct against him in 1986. This claim led to a civil case in 2022, in which a jury found Spacey not liable. Aside from his professional duties, Rapp is a supporter of the Chicago Cubs, having thrown a first pitch for the team in 2016. He lives with his partner, Ken Ithiphol, and they are parents to two children born via surrogacy.
Fast facts
- Born: 26 October 1971, Chicago
- Education: Joliet West High School, New York University
- Broadway Debut: The Little Prince and the Aviator (1981)
- Signature Role: Mark Cohen in Rent
- Star Trek: Discovery role: Paul Stamets
- Memoir: Without You (2006)
- Partner: Ken Ithiphol
- Children: Two
Questions readers ask
Did Anthony Rapp perform in the film version of Rent?
Yes, he reprised his Broadway role of Mark Cohen for the 2005 film adaptation.
What is Anthony Rapp's connection to Star Trek?
He played Lt. Commander Paul Stamets on Star Trek: Discovery from 2017 to 2024.
Achievements
- Educated at New York University, Joliet West High School and Interlochen Center for the Arts
- Worked as singer, stage actor and television actor
