Rodney Hicks is a name synonymous with Broadway history, an artist whose voice resonates not only through the theatre but also as an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Known for his remarkable role in the original cast of Rent, Hicks’ career spans decades, during which he has worn many hats as a writer, director and activist. With a strong commitment to using his art to speak out for inclusion, love and understanding, Hicks’ journey is one of transformation both onstage and off.
One of Hicks’ most impactful roles came in 1996 when he joined the original cast of the revolutionary Broadway musical Rent. The show, which would go on to define a generation, pushed boundaries by depicting the lives of marginalized characters, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community during the AIDS crisis. As Hicks notes, stepping into a groundbreaking production like Rent was transformative not just for his career but for his personal life. “It felt like every day I was confronting myself,” Hicks reflects. “The show was about everything I was taught to believe was wrong. Through the process of being a part of this beautiful piece of theatre with such an incredible company of artists and humans, I learned otherwise.” The show’s profound effect on Hicks led him to a pivotal personal revelation. Just a few months into the rehearsal process, he came out as gay, which would ultimately help reshape his life and career.
As a part of the original ensemble, Hicks was tasked with playing multiple roles, including the character of Paul, a support group leader deeply involved in the LGBTQ+ community during the height of the AIDS crisis. His portrayal of Paul, a role inspired by Cynthia O’ Neil of Friends in Deed, allowed Hicks to channel compassion, empathy, and resilience themes that continue to resonate in his work today. He recalls, “Admittedly, I was terrified of being gay at this time in my life, so I had to learn how to be unafraid to understand and heal my own internalized homophobia.”
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The impact of playing such a character deeply involved in the AIDS crisis affected Hicks both professionally and personally. “The message of the show is about believing in something greater than ourselves, and the love and resilience of community and chosen family,” he says. It is through Rent that Hicks’ journey of self-acceptance began, which also deepened his commitment to activism and community.
Over the years, Hicks’ role in Rent has continued to resonate with audiences, both as a testament to Johnathan Larson’s work and as a symbol of perseverance for the LGBTQ+ community. As he explains, Rent‘s enduring influence is due to its timeless message of inclusion, love, and self-acceptance.”The impact the musical had made is huge,” Hicks asserts. “Many lives in our LGBTQ+ community have been not only changes but saved because of Johnathan Larson’s Rent.”
The significance of Rent has remained a cultural touchstone for three decades, and Hicks feels deeply connected to its legacy. “To see that ‘Seasons of Love’ has become like the National Anthem of Broadway warms my soul,” he says. He has has the unique honor of not only being part of the original cast but also of performing in the closing production of Rent and appearing in the live Broadway recording for Rent: Live on Broadway. For Hicks, these experiences are more than just professional milestones they are emotional ones that have shaped his career and activism.
For his advice to young LGBTQ+ artists, Hicks encourages authenticity. “Know that it is not the pursuit of a thing, but process, kindness and community. Do all you can to learn how to retain your energy, take up meditation, or something that allows moments of stillness and breath.” His words echo the wisdom gained from his years in theatre the importance of being true to oneself and not letting the pressures of the industry force you into a mold that doesn’t fit.
Reflecting on Broadway’s journey toward inclusivity, Hicks acknowledges significant progress. “Broadway has come a long way to be even more inclusive since my time with Rent,” he observes. He recalls a time when actors were told to conceal their sexual orientation, especially if they hoped to transition into film or television. Today however, the landscape has shifted toward greater representation. While there is still work to be done, Hicks celebrates the strides that have been made noting , “I think the entertainment industry , as a whole, has come a long way with representation of our LGBTQ+ community.”
For Hicks, being part of this cultural evolution has been both a privilege and a responsibility. As an out, gay,Black man in America, he has chosen to embrace both his artistic career and his activism,”Being an artist is my activism,” he reflects. “Art is activism, I believe. In the ’60s, it was music that defined a generation. Still, a long way to go. But I will always believes that Art heals.”
Looking ahead, Hicks is filled with excitement and gratitude for the opportunities that continue to unfold.Rodney will be taking part in the Singalong Tribute to RENT for the 30th anniversary at the Holiday Theatre in Denver, Colorado. This event will take place Friday march 21, 2025 at 7:00 pm and it will be something you don’t want to miss. Rodney will touch on his portrayal of Paul , a character who deeply embodies the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community during the AIDS crisis. Rodney will also be joined there by other LGBTQ+ organizations like the Rainbow Cult and The Alexander Foundation This year, he is also set to star in a feature film portraying a Vietnam War vet overcoming PTSD and becoming an activist for peace. “It’s an extraordinary film and role, I am grateful to have something like this come into my life at 50 years old,” he shares. Additionally, he is thrilled to be guest starring in the upcoming Netflix series Forever, based on the iconic Judy Blume novel. This role marks his first portrayal of a gay character on television, a moment Hicks describes as profoundly meaningful.
In all his endeavors, Hicks advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community remains central to his work. Whether through his roles on stage, his personal activism, or his future projects, Hicks continues to be a strong representation of hope, love and LGBTQ+ activism. As Hicks reflects on his journey , he leaves use with the powerful message to “Measure your life in love. There is truly only us. and only now. No day but today.”
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