Broadway star Jordan Litz proved that determination knows no limits on November 2, 2025, when he ran the New York City Marathon and then performed in two back-to-back shows of Wicked at the Gershwin Theatre. The 37-year-old actor completed the 26.2-mile course through all five boroughs in an impressive 3:40:53 before stepping onto the Broadway stage as Fiyero for the 2 p.m. matinee and the 7 p.m. evening performance.

“Yesterday, I felt all the love on the road and on the stage,” Litz wrote on Instagram the following day. “So many people lifted me up and supported me through one of the most challenging and rewarding days I’ve ever lived. There were smiles, there were struggles, there were hugs and there were tears. Thank you all for helping me make this crazy dream come true.”

Running for a Cause: Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS

Litz ran the marathon in support of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, a nonprofit organization that harnesses the passion of the theater community to provide lifesaving medication, housing, and support for those in need. Through audience donations, benefit performances, and fundraising events, the organization raises hundreds of millions annually.

By combining his marathon training with his Broadway schedule, Litz not only challenged himself physically but also helped raise awareness and funds for a meaningful cause.

From Swimmer to Broadway Star

Before becoming a Broadway performer, Litz was an accomplished swimmer, qualifying for the 2012 U.S. Olympic trials. This athletic background contributed to his stamina and discipline, which allowed him to tackle one of the most grueling days in his career.

“I’m crazy,” Litz told NBC New York. “I’ve always been that kind of person… I just loved to grind, and I loved to beat up my body and push it to the limits. So a marathon seemed like the logical next step for that kind of thing.”

The experience also reshaped his perspective on performing:

“I’ve done the show in every condition possible, with my knee hurting, my ankle hurting, my voice hurting… It has made the show not scary, in that, ‘Oh my gosh, I just ran 22 miles. All I have to do now is play Fiyero on Broadway.’ That seems so easy compared to what I just did. So from a mental standpoint, I feel like I can conquer the world because of all this training.”

National Attention

Litz’s marathon feat attracted attention from local media, The New York Times, and even Saturday Night Live, where Colin Jost humorously commented during the “Weekend Update” segment:

“Broadway star Jordan Litz announced that he will be running in tomorrow’s New York City Marathon then later star in two performances of Wicked — and then after that, die.”

Despite the joke, Litz successfully completed the marathon and two performances, showcasing his remarkable endurance and dedication to both fitness and theater.

Family Support

Amidst this extraordinary day, Litz’s family celebrated his accomplishments. His wife, Julie, who he met while performing at Disney World, shared her pride on Instagram:

“There will never be adequate words to describe how proud I am of this man. An entire marathon. Two Wicked shows. One day. We are the luckiest girls in the world to be yours. YOU DID IT!!!! ❤️🏅”

Julie and their 2-year-old daughter, Greta, eagerly anticipate the arrival of their second child, due this December.

Catch Jordan Litz in Wicked

Fans can see Jordan Litz perform as Fiyero at the Gershwin Theatre in New York City, where tickets for Wicked are currently on sale. His marathon achievement adds an inspiring new layer to his already impressive Broadway career, proving that with dedication, passion, and resilience, anything is possible.