Harvey Fierstein to receive Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Tony Awards.

Broadway luminary Harvey Fierstein is set to receive the 2025 Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre, as announced by Tony Award producers. This recognition honors his exceptional contributions both as an artist and as an activist within American theatre.

Fierstein’s remarkable career spans decades, during which he has garnered four prestigious Tony Awards. His impact on the LGBTQ+ community and the theatrical landscape has been profound, earning him accolades for not only his performances but also his advocacy for marginalized voices in the arts. The announcement highlighted that Fierstein’s legacy represents an extraordinary influence on American culture, making him a fitting recipient of this honor.

The 78th Annual Tony Awards will be held on June 8, 2025, at the iconic Radio City Music Hall. The ceremony will be broadcast live on CBS and available for streaming on Paramount+ at 8 p.m. Nominees for this year’s awards will be revealed on May 1, with the event hosted by acclaimed actress and singer Cynthia Erivo.

Fierstein, now at 72, achieved significant recognition with his groundbreaking play “Torch Song Trilogy” in 1982, which won him two Tony Awards: one for Best Play and another for Best Actor in a Play. His contributions extend further, as he secured Tony Awards for Best Book of a Musical for “La Cage Aux Folles” and Best Actor in a Musical for his iconic portrayal of Edna Turnblad in “Hairspray.” His talents encompass writing, acting, and producing, showcasing a versatile skill set that has made him a cornerstone of contemporary theatre.

Beyond these accomplishments, Fierstein has penned the book for the Tony Award-winning musical “Kinky Boots” and has written for various influential works, including the musicals “Newsies” and plays such as “Casa Valentina,” “A Catered Affair,” and “Flatbush Tosca.” Most recently, he contributed to the 2022 Broadway revival of “Funny Girl,” which starred Beanie Feldstein and later featured Lea Michele in the lead role.

Fierstein’s legacy is not only defined by his accolades but also by his courageous efforts to create inclusive spaces within the arts, making him an enduring symbol of resilience and creativity on Broadway. This upcoming recognition serves as a testament to his lasting impact and dedication to the theatrical community.