Ethan Slater has become one of the most talked-about young performers in entertainment today. With his growing list of movies and television shows, the actor continues to prove that he is more than just a Broadway breakout. From stage to screen, his versatility, dedication, and creativity have shaped a career that keeps gaining momentum as 2025 draws to a close.
A Performer with Broadway Roots
Before his name appeared on film credits, Ethan Slater had already established himself as a powerhouse on the stage. Born on June 2, 1992, in Washington, D.C., and raised in Maryland, he grew up passionate about performance and storytelling. After graduating from Vassar College, where he honed his acting and writing skills, he began working in regional and off-Broadway productions.
His breakout came when he was cast as the lead in SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical. Premiering officially in 2017, his performance captured the essence of the beloved cartoon character while adding humor, heart, and emotional depth. Critics praised his physical comedy and boundless energy, earning him a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical in 2018.
That role put him on the map and opened the door to film and television opportunities that would soon follow.
From Stage to Screen
Ethan Slater’s transition from Broadway to on-screen work was a natural next step. His expressive acting style, honed through years of live performance, easily translated to the camera. As his career evolved, he began landing roles that showcased both his musical abilities and dramatic range.
Today, his filmography continues to grow, with projects ranging from prestige television series to major Hollywood productions.
Film Roles that Define His Career
Wicked (Part One – 2026)
One of Slater’s most anticipated roles is in the upcoming film adaptation of Wicked. Directed by Jon M. Chu and produced by Universal Pictures, the film brings the Tony-winning Broadway musical to the big screen for the first time.
Slater plays Boq, a kind-hearted Munchkin whose story intertwines with Glinda and Elphaba. His performance is already being called one of the movie’s standout supporting roles.
Filming for the project began in 2022 and concluded in 2024, with the release scheduled for November 2026. Early footage and industry buzz highlight Slater’s mix of comedic timing and sincerity—qualities that have defined his career since his Broadway debut.
The film also stars Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, forming a dynamic ensemble that bridges theater excellence with pop culture appeal.
Wicked (Part Two – 2027)
Following the completion of the first film, production for Wicked: Part Two resumed in 2025. Slater once again returns as Boq, continuing his character’s journey in the second half of the story.
Part Two is expected to release in November 2027, completing the cinematic retelling of the beloved musical. This two-part project marks a major turning point in Slater’s career, bringing him to international recognition and introducing his talent to audiences beyond Broadway. Ethan Slater Movies and TV Shows
Independent and Upcoming Projects
Alongside Wicked, Slater has been attached to a new independent film project in development. The untitled production is set to explore themes of creativity, family, and resilience, giving Slater a more dramatic role than his musical performances.
He’s also rumored to be involved in a modern adaptation of a classic stage comedy, with pre-production discussions taking place through late 2025. While details are still under wraps, the project would further diversify his growing portfolio.
These upcoming roles confirm what fans have long suspected—Ethan Slater is not just a stage actor; he’s a screen performer ready to take on complex and varied characters.
Notable Television Appearances
Ethan Slater’s television work has expanded steadily over the past few years, with each appearance showcasing a different facet of his talent.
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (2021)
In 2021, Slater appeared in a guest role on NBC’s long-running drama Law & Order: SVU. His portrayal of a troubled young man in a high-stakes case demonstrated his ability to shift from musical theater to emotional television drama seamlessly.
Fosse/Verdon (2019)
Slater joined the acclaimed FX miniseries Fosse/Verdon, which chronicled the life of director-choreographer Bob Fosse and actress Gwen Verdon. His stage background made him a perfect fit for the show’s recreation of Broadway’s golden age, and his small yet impactful role contributed to the series’ authenticity.
Murphy Brown (2018)
He made one of his first television appearances on the CBS revival of Murphy Brown. Though brief, his role introduced him to a network audience and hinted at his comedic instincts beyond the musical world. Ethan Slater Movies and TV Shows
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2023)
In 2023, Slater appeared in an episode of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. His presence in the series’ final season connected him once again to a story deeply rooted in the performing arts—something that aligns perfectly with his own career trajectory.
New Streaming Series (2025)
In summer 2025, Slater wrapped production on a yet-to-be-titled streaming series that blends music, comedy, and heartfelt storytelling. The series, expected to premiere in early 2026, follows an ensemble of artists trying to balance ambition and personal growth in New York City.
It marks Slater’s first role as a series regular, offering him a broader platform to display both his acting and musical talents. Ethan Slater Movies and TV Shows
The Signature Style That Sets Him Apart
Ethan Slater stands out for his ability to make every role feel authentic. His stage training has given him an instinctive understanding of timing, body language, and vocal expression. Whether he’s playing an animated sea sponge, a conflicted television guest, or a kind-hearted Munchkin, Slater brings a distinct blend of humor, humanity, and precision.
He also possesses a rare versatility that allows him to move effortlessly between comedy and drama, musical performance and quiet realism. Directors often describe him as collaborative, detail-oriented, and deeply committed to the emotional truth of each scene. Ethan Slater Movies and TV Shows
This grounded approach is part of what’s driving his rapid rise in both television and film.
Collaborations and Creative Partnerships
Throughout his career, Ethan Slater has had the opportunity to work with some of the most respected figures in entertainment.
- Jon M. Chu, director of Wicked, has praised Slater’s dedication on set.
- Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, his Wicked co-stars, share strong musical chemistry with him, both on and off screen.
- Earlier in his career, collaborations with stage veterans in Assassins and Fosse/Verdon helped shape his professional discipline and creative instincts.
These partnerships have strengthened his position as one of the most exciting crossover talents of his generation.
The Bridge Between Theater and Hollywood
What makes Ethan Slater particularly remarkable is how he represents a new generation of performers who can bridge the worlds of theater and film. He maintains a strong connection to Broadway, often returning to attend shows and support colleagues, while steadily building a screen career that appeals to a much wider audience.
His background in musical storytelling gives him a strong foundation for the cinematic work ahead. With projects like Wicked, he’s not only stepping into Hollywood but helping to redefine what it means to be a stage-trained actor in the modern entertainment industry.
Awards and Recognition
Even early in his career, Slater earned widespread acclaim for his performances. His list of honors includes:
- Tony Award Nomination (2018) – Best Actor in a Musical for SpongeBob SquarePants
- Drama Desk Award (2018) – Outstanding Actor in a Musical
- Outer Critics Circle Award (2018) – Outstanding Actor in a Musical
- Named one of Variety’s 2024 “Actors to Watch” for his transition to screen
These achievements highlight both his critical success and the respect he’s earned within the industry.
Personal Growth and Creative Vision
Beyond his on-screen work, Slater is also a writer and musician. He has composed songs for stage projects and continues to explore creative storytelling through multiple forms of media. This multifaceted approach reflects his belief that art should connect people through emotion and shared experience.
Colleagues often describe him as thoughtful, hardworking, and generous—a performer more focused on growth than fame. As his film and television credits expand, those qualities have become part of what makes him so admired by peers and audiences alike.
What’s Next in His Career
With Wicked: Part One premiering next year, 2026 will mark a pivotal moment for Ethan Slater. The film is expected to reach global audiences, positioning him as a recognizable face in Hollywood.
Following that, his new streaming series will give him his first long-term television platform. Additional stage work is also rumored for 2026–2027, suggesting he will continue balancing both screen and live performance.
Fans can also look forward to his return in Wicked: Part Two in 2027, ensuring several years of high-profile projects ahead.
Final Thoughts
Ethan Slater’s expanding list of movies and television shows proves that his talent knows no boundaries. From Tony-nominated stage performances to major film roles, his journey reflects dedication, range, and passion for storytelling. As he continues to make his mark on both Broadway and Hollywood, it’s clear that his best work is still ahead.
Which of Ethan Slater’s upcoming roles are you most excited to see? Share your thoughts below and stay tuned for the latest updates on his growing career.