The Outsiders burst onto Broadway this year, earning the hearts of fans and winning the Tony Award for Best Musical. Charming audiences nightly at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre is Jason Schmidt, a Broadway newcomer taking on the beloved character of Sodapop Curtis, the role made famous on screen by Rob Lowe.
In addition to this latest stage turn, Schmidt was recently seen on screen in the Paramount+ series Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies. Also a songwriter, he recently released a single titled “My Ego Loves You.”
Following a whirlwind of an awards season, Schmidt took the time to answer 5 Questions with Broadway Direct, sharing his perfectionist tendencies, the Broadway favorite that inspired his younger self, and the “once-in-a-lifetime” aspect of The Outsiders.
1. What inspired you to become an actor?
Initially, I was inspired to be an actor simply because of the joy it gave me. I grew up doing community theater and it was where most of my friends were from and I loved doing it. It wasn’t ‘til later that I took it more seriously. I’m grateful I started that way because my first nine years of acting were free from pressure. As a perfectionist, I put pressure on myself, but I got to practice while just enjoying it. I like to think it’s part of the reason I’m able to enjoy it so much to this day!
2. Who in your field inspires you?
So many people. I’m inspired by my castmates daily. Jeremy Jordan was the first Broadway actor who I watched who made me want to act professionally. My best friends, who I went to school with, push me to be better as well.
3. What will audiences be most excited about seeing in The Outsiders?
Who am I to say? I’ve never seen it. A lot of people talk about the rumble. Which, even though I haven’t seen it, I can confirm is once-in-a-lifetime choreo. I personally am most excited for people to feel the story. The creative team created something visceral for us actors to live in every night. And the audience has been feeling it, and that’s the special thing.
4. If you didn’t need to sleep at night, what would you spend your time doing?
I would write so much music. But other than that, I don’t know — watch every movie ever? Listen to every song? Read every book? So many options.
5. What is your favorite spot in NYC?
There are a few cafes that I go to most mornings near my apartment. I love that time. I sit there and read and get my mind grounded for the day.
You can catch Jason Schmidt in The Outsiders at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre.