Lea Michele Reflects on Journey from Broadway to Glee Fame

Los Angeles, CA – Actress Lea Michele has recently shared her thoughts on the significant shift in her career from Broadway to becoming a global television star with the hit series Glee.

Michele began her career in theater, achieving early success with her performance in Spring Awakening. However, it was her role as Rachel Berry in Ryan Murphy‘s musical series Glee, which premiered in 2009, that brought her worldwide acclaim.

In an interview with Glamour, Michele expressed pride in her time on the show. “I love Glee, I love Rachel Berry. I’m so proud of the work,” she said. “But nothing could really prepare anyone for what that experience was like—massive, and it occurred during your most memorable years.”

The 39-year-old actress revealed that she never intended to pursue a career in television. She first met Ryan Murphy while performing in Spring Awakening in Los Angeles, where he decided to create the character of Rachel Berry specifically for her.

“I never expected it,” Michele mentioned. “I only ever wanted to do Broadway, and then I was in California for 15 years.”

Michele starred in Glee from 2009 until its conclusion in 2015, and she expressed gratitude for the unexpected journey that ultimately led her back to Broadway. Her recent work includes the 2022 revival of Funny Girl and an appearance in Chess.

“I’m beyond grateful for that journey… and the fact that it was Funny Girl that really kind of solidified my return back to Broadway,” she concluded. “It’s all connected.”