Luke Evans turned one of Broadway’s biggest nights into a social media frenzy when he took the stage at the Tony Awards and delivered a performance that instantly became one of the ceremony’s most talked-about moments.
The actor, currently starring in a revival of “The Rocky Horror Show,” stunned viewers with a daring costume choice while performing the show’s iconic anthem “Sweet Transvestite.”
Within minutes, fans flooded social media with reactions ranging from shock to admiration.
Luke Evans appeared during Sunday’s ceremony at Radio City Music Hall as Dr. Frank-N-Furter, the flamboyant character immortalized by Tim Curry in the 1975 film adaptation of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.”
The performance centered on “Sweet Transvestite,” one of the musical’s most recognizable songs and a fan favorite for decades.
While audiences knew Evans would be taking on the role for the Broadway revival, many were unprepared for just how far he would lean into the character during the televised performance.
The 47-year-old made a dramatic entrance before turning toward the audience and cameras in a revealing costume featuring fishnet stockings and a jockstrap thong.
The look quickly became one of the defining images of the night and immediately set social media ablaze.
For many viewers, Evans’ interpretation stood apart from previous versions of the role and gave the classic character a distinctly modern edge.
Evans’ Costume Sparks A Flood Of Online Reactions
Almost as soon as the performance aired, social media users began sharing stunned reactions. One viewer joked per the Daily Mail, “Did not have Luke Evans showing full hole in a jockstrap thong at the Tonys on my 2026 bingo card.”
Another praised Luke Evans’ confidence, writing, “Luke Evans said: ‘we’re going a size smaller for tonight’s jockstrap’ to his dresser. And I commend him for it. Show it off, honey.”
Others appeared shocked that the outfit made it onto a nationally televised awards show.
“I didn’t know he’d be able to wear the jockstrap on national television UGHHHH LUKE EVANSSSSS STEP ON ME,” one fan posted.
Another viewer laughed, “I can’t believe they didn’t find a way to censor Luke Evans’ costume for this TV performance.”
Luke Evans Swapped His Red Carpet Elegance For A Much Bolder Look
The stage costume was in sharp contrast to the polished appearance Evans had showcased earlier in the evening.
Before taking the stage, the singer walked the red carpet in a classic white tuxedo alongside his boyfriend, Spanish entrepreneur Fran Tomas.
The elegant appearance gave little indication of the eye-catching performance that would follow later in the evening.
Although many younger fans know Evans primarily through his film work, the Hollywood star’s background is deeply rooted in musical theater.
Before becoming a Hollywood star, he built a successful stage career through productions in London’s West End, appearing in major musicals including “Rent” and “Miss Saigon.”
That theatrical experience ultimately brought him back to Broadway for “The Rocky Horror Show” revival, where he has earned acclaim for his take on Frank-N-Furter.
Evans Earned A Major Tony Nomination For His Performance
Luke Evans’ work in “The Rocky Horror Show” earned him a nomination for Best Leading Actor in a Musical at Sunday’s ceremony.
However, the award ultimately went to Joshua Henry for “Ragtime.” Other nominees included Brandon Uranowitz, also for “Ragtime,” Sam Tutty for “Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York),” and Nicholas Christopher for a revival of “Chess.”
Despite missing out on the trophy, Evans remained one of the evening’s most discussed performers thanks to his unforgettable musical number.
His journey to Broadway recognition follows years of success on the big screen, during which he became known worldwide for portraying Bard the Bowman in Peter Jackson’s “The Hobbit” trilogy.
He later expanded his profile further by playing Gaston opposite Emma Watson and Dan Stevens in Disney’s live-action adaptation of “Beauty and the Beast.”
Luke Evans’ ‘Rocky Horror’ Revival Faced Tough Competition Throughout The Night
Evans was not the only member of “The Rocky Horror Show” company recognized during the ceremony.
Co-star Stephanie Hsu received a nomination for Best Leading Actress in a Musical for her portrayal of Janet, a role famously played by Susan Sarandon on screen. Hsu ultimately lost to Caissie Levy for “Ragtime.”
The category also featured Christiani Pitts for “Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York),” Sara Chase for “Schmigadoon!,” and Marla Mindelle for “Titanique,” the musical parody built around Celine Dion’s songs.
Meanwhile, “The Rocky Horror Show” itself competed for Best Revival of a Musical. The production ultimately fell short against “Ragtime,” which enjoyed one of the strongest nights of the ceremony.
The revival category also included “Cats: The Jellicle Ball,” a reimagined version of the Andrew Lloyd Webber classic that pays tribute to queer Harlem ballroom culture.