Broadway Star Chris Peluso Dies Suddenly at 40, Leaving Behind a Legacy in Theater
Chris Peluso, a beloved actor and singer known for his incredible talent on stage, has passed away at the age of 40. The news of his sudden death was confirmed by his family on August 15. Peluso is survived by his wife Jessica Gomes and their two young children, Aria Li and Caio Lian.
Peluso’s alma mater, the University of Michigan, expressed their grief and posted a heartfelt tribute to the late star on its musical-theatre department’s Instagram page. Linda Goodrich, the interim chair of the department, described Peluso as a loving, charismatic, and divinely gifted individual. She highlighted some of his notable roles, including his Broadway debut in “Assassins,” as well as performances in “Lestat,” “The Glorious Ones,” and “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.” Peluso’s portrayal of Sky in the 2008 Broadway production of “Oh mama!” was also widely celebrated. He even had a touring role as Fiyero in the popular musical “Wicked.”
Tributes poured in from friends, colleagues, and fans following the news of Peluso’s passing. Songwriter Justin Paul, who is also an alum of the University of Michigan, left a heartfelt comment on the tribute post, expressing his sadness. Desi Oakley, another Broadway star, shared memories of Peluso’s kindness and professionalism.
In addition to his work in the U.S., Peluso made a name for himself in London productions. He appeared in shows like “Show Boat,” “Miss Saigon,” “The Woman in White,” and “Death Takes a Holiday.” He also had a notable performance in a U.K. tour of “Funny Girl.” Peluso showcased his talent in productions of “West Side Story” and “Wretched” as well, portraying the characters of Tony and Marius, respectively.
Peluso was not only dedicated to his craft but also to helping others. He was pursuing a master’s degree in therapeutic counseling to support students in managing the anxieties that come with a career in the arts.
Last September, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to raise funds for Peluso’s mental health treatment. He had previously been diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, which led to debilitating paranoia and affected his ability to perform. In a grateful update to the campaign, Peluso revealed that he had completed treatment, was stable, and on the path to recovery. He expressed his gratitude for the incredible support he received from friends, family, and fans.
The theater community and fans alike mourn the loss of Chris Peluso, recognizing the immense talent and impact he had on stage. His tragic passing serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health support and the challenges faced by those in the performing arts industry. If you or someone you know is in need of mental health assistance, please consider reaching out to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741.