When it comes to powerhouse performances, Jonathan Groff is in a league of his own. Whether he’s stealing scenes on Broadway, voicing beloved animated characters, or captivating audiences on TV, Groff brings passion, nuance, and unforgettable charisma to every role.
Recently, he tackled the role of Bobby Darin in Broadway’s Just in Time, a biographical jukebox musical that showcased Groff’s undeniable charm and vocal prowess. Below, we rank the best Jonathan Groff roles that highlight just how versatile and talented he truly is.
5. Spring Awakening (2006)
Before he became a household name, Jonathan Groff broke out in Broadway’s groundbreaking rock musical Spring Awakening. As the troubled and passionate Melchior Gabor, Groff earned a Tony nomination and introduced the world to his raw emotional power. His chemistry with co-star Lea Michele was electric, setting the stage for his future success.
4. Hamilton (2015)
Even with limited stage time, Jonathan Groff Hamilton performances became legendary. As King George III, Groff stole every scene with his wickedly funny portrayal of the pouty monarch. His performance of “You’ll Be Back” remains a fan favorite, complete with hilariously exaggerated facial expressions that became memes in their own right.
3. Glee (2009–2015)
Joining the Glee universe as Jesse St. James, Groff turned a potentially one-note “bad boy” into a complex character fans loved (and loved to hate). His incredible vocal performances, from “Bohemian Rhapsody” to “Rolling in the Deep,” were highlights of the show’s most musical moments, showcasing his Broadway-honed pipes for a global TV audience.
2. Doctor Who (2024)
In one of his most recent standout roles, Jonathan Groff dazzled in Doctor Who‘s 2024 season. While Whovians were initially tight-lipped about Groff’s mysterious character, his performance delivered emotional weight, intrigue, and a touch of Broadway flair. He fit seamlessly into the Doctor Who universe, proving again that Groff can dominate any genre he enters.
1. Mindhunter (2017–2019)
Mindhunter is often cited as Jonathan Groff‘s best TV role to date. As FBI agent Holden Ford, Groff brought subtle intensity and intelligence to the chilling true-crime drama. His ability to balance Ford’s ambition with his vulnerability made the series unforgettable—and left fans clamoring for a Season 3 that sadly never came.
Jonathan Groff Roles: Notable Mentions
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Frozen (2013, 2019) – As the voice of Kristoff, Jonathan Groff Frozen performances melted hearts worldwide. His solo, “Lost in the Woods,” in Frozen II showed off his comedic chops and vocal range.
- Knock at the Cabin (2023) – In Knock at the Cabin, Groff tackled the horror-thriller genre with emotional depth, playing a father trying to protect his family in an impossible situation. It’s yet another example of his fearless range.
Final Thoughts
Whether he’s belting out royal ballads in Jonathan Groff Hamilton, voicing an ice-loving mountain man in Frozen, or unraveling the minds of serial killers in Mindhunter, Jonathan Groff continues to amaze. His career is a masterclass in versatility, and with upcoming projects like A Nice Indian Boy, there’s no sign of him slowing down. We can’t wait to see where he takes us next!
