Wild Card with Rachel Martin: Jonathan Groff Lost His Faith While Spelunking
Episode Overview Released on May 15, 2025, Wild Card with Rachel Martin features Broadway sensation Jonathan Groff in an intimate and unconventional conversation. Unlike typical interview podcasts, Wild Card employs a unique deck of cards to guide discussions, prompting guests to delve into personal and profound topics. This episode navigates Jonathan's journey through faith, identity, and artistic expression, offering listeners a deep dive into his life beyond the stage.
1. Introduction and Setting the Stage
Rachel Martin kicks off the episode by highlighting Jonathan Groff's illustrious career in Broadway, including his roles in Spring Awakening, Hamilton, and his Tony-winning performance in Merrily We Roll Along. She underscores Jonathan's dedication to his craft, emphasizing how his performances are an embodiment of living out his purpose.
Notable Quote:
"When I watch Jonathan Groff perform, it is more than just watching a person do what they love. It's watching a person live out their purpose." — Rachel Martin [02:16]
Jonathan expresses his appreciation for Rachel's heartfelt introduction, setting a warm and genuine tone for the conversation.
2. Early Memories and Musical Influences
The "Memories" round begins with Rachel prompting Jonathan to share where he sought refuge during his teenage years. Jonathan reminisces about his childhood bedroom dominated by giant boomboxes—a gift from his parents. Music became his sanctuary, with genres ranging from musicals to Britney Spears, illustrating his early connection to the performing arts.
Notable Quote:
"I would go there and I would put on musicals. So I was a huge musical theater nerd in high school." — Jonathan Groff [03:11]
He touches upon discovering A New Brain, a musical with a central gay romance, which resonated deeply with him, providing comfort and a sense of belonging during his formative years.
3. Embracing His Hometown and Identity
In response to what Jonathan has learned to appreciate about his hometown over time, he shares his love for Lancaster, Pennsylvania—a conservative community. Despite leaving at 19 to pursue acting in New York, Jonathan has maintained strong ties to his roots. Purchasing a house near his father's horse farm in 2019 allowed him to blend his professional life with personal fulfillment. He envisions transforming the farm into an artist retreat, bridging his artistic endeavors with familial bonds.
Notable Quote:
"I've learned to be myself and be home at the same time. There's still a lot of dissonance and challenge in that, but it's been great to sort of be able with open arms, to embrace." — Jonathan Groff [07:12]
Jonathan also acknowledges the growing acceptance of the LGBTQ community in Lancaster, highlighting the dual sense of community he now enjoys.
4. Parental Influences and Pursuit of Passion
Jonathan delves into the values instilled by his parents, who encouraged him to pursue his passions despite societal expectations. His father's decision to become a horse trainer instead of taking over the family dairy farm and his mother's dedication to sports amidst limited opportunities for women in her time serve as foundational examples of following one's calling.
Notable Quote:
"They taught me from a young age that pursuing your passion was something worthwhile." — Jonathan Groff [10:31]
This upbringing fostered Jonathan's own commitment to the arts, even when his parents didn't fully grasp his interest in theater.
5. Current Projects: Just in Time
Jonathan discusses his latest venture, a musical about singer Bobby Darin titled Just in Time. The project stems from an impromptu idea during a Night of Bobby Darin event, which spiraled into a full-fledged musical under the direction of Alex Timbers. Jonathan's performance seamlessly transitions from himself to embodying Bobby Darin, aiming to capture the essence and magic of Darin's live performances.
Notable Quote:
"I can become Bobby Darin as the story goes along, and so that it completely works." — Jonathan Groff [15:00]
Rachel praises the show, noting its ability to bridge personal connection with historical narrative, making Bobby Darin's story accessible and compelling to new audiences.
6. Handling Criticism and Personal Growth
In the "Insights" round, Jonathan candidly discusses his struggles with becoming defensive when receiving criticism, especially in areas outside his expertise, such as learning the piano for his role in Just in Time. He reflects on his growth over the years, emphasizing the importance of viewing feedback as a tool for improvement rather than a personal attack.
Notable Quote:
"It's an art to be able to take notes and not, like, become defensive or take it personally." — Jonathan Groff [21:13]
This self-awareness underscores his dedication to continuous personal and professional development.
7. Shouldering Weight and Embracing Authenticity
Jonathan opens up about the emotional burden of concealing his sexual identity in a conservative environment. The loss of his partner, Gavin Creel, served as a pivotal moment that propelled him to fully embrace his identity, leading to a more authentic and fulfilling life. He credits supportive communities and personal relationships for helping him navigate this transformative journey.
Notable Quote:
"When I came out, I decided to not care anymore about fame or success. I said goodbye to that." — Jonathan Groff [27:24]
Rachel empathizes with his experience, recognizing how releasing this weight has empowered him to handle other challenges in his career.
8. Letting Go of Religious Beliefs
In the "Beliefs" round, Jonathan recounts a pivotal experience during a Youth for Christ camp spelunking exercise. The association between religious expectations and personal discomfort led him to question and ultimately let go of his Methodist faith. Instead, he found spiritual fulfillment in theater, appreciating its ability to evoke genuine emotions and foster a sense of community.
Notable Quote:
"Theater became my spiritual home. And I let go of that specific Methodist belief." — Jonathan Groff [34:17]
This transition highlights the profound impact of personal experiences on shaping one's beliefs and passions.
9. The Spirituality of Performance
Jonathan describes his performances as a form of prayer—moments of genuine connection and shared emotion between the performer and the audience. He emphasizes the sacredness of this interaction, where love and gratitude are openly expressed, mirroring the intimacy and vulnerability of spiritual rituals.
Notable Quote:
"There's a kind of love affair between performer and audience that is in the air in this show. That's like a prayer." — Jonathan Groff [36:18]
Rachel notes the emotional depth of these moments, underscoring the transformative power of live theater.
10. Reflecting on Memories
Concluding with a "Memory Time Machine" segment, Jonathan attempts to revisit a poignant childhood memory. Although humorous moments ensue due to a mix-up with dates, the essence of cherishing meaningful moments remains clear. He expresses a desire to relive the time spent with his late grandfather, highlighting the enduring impact of family bonds and cherished memories.
Notable Quote:
"I would go back and live in that moment." — Jonathan Groff [41:40]
Rachel and Jonathan share a heartfelt exchange, affirming the importance of such memories in shaping one's identity and life journey.
Closing Thoughts
Rachel Martin wraps up the episode by celebrating Jonathan's candidness and artistic achievements. She encourages listeners to experience Just in Time on Broadway, praising its emotional resonance and Jonathan's captivating performance. The episode stands as a testament to Jonathan Groff's resilience, authenticity, and unwavering dedication to his craft and personal truth.
Production Credits
- Produced by: Summer Tomad
- Edited by: Dave Blanchard
- Mastered by: Patrick Murray
- Executive Producer: Yolanda Sangweni
- Theme Music: Ramtin Arablouei
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