Broadway Stars to Run 2026 NYC Marathon
A group of prominent Broadway performers will race the 26.2-mile course through New York City this November.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Running
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Broadway performers including Patina Miller and Joshua Bassett are set to compete in the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon on November 1. The group will tackle the traditional 26.2-mile course that spans all five boroughs of New York City.
Why it matters
The participation of stage stars highlights the deep connection between the New York theater community and local charitable organizations. Many of these runners are using the high-profile platform to raise awareness and funds for causes like mental health and equality.
The race covers a standard distance of 26.2 miles. Runners secure entry into the event by either completing nine qualifying races, participating via lottery, or running on behalf of a charity.
The players
Patina Miller
She is an acclaimed stage and screen performer who is preparing to run her fourth New York City Marathon.
Joshua Bassett
He is an actor and musician who is running the race to support the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS
This organization is a leading entertainment-industry-based nonprofit that funds essential social services.
Erika Henningsen
She is a celebrated Broadway actress participating in the marathon in support of the organization Girl Rising.
Jordan Litz
He is a stage actor who is running in his second New York City Marathon this year.
The details
Performing artists including Erika Henningsen, Merle Dandridge, and Benjamin Walker have joined the roster for the upcoming race. Several participants are running in support of specific groups, such as Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Girl Rising, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
Timeline
The 2026 TCS New York City Marathon takes place on November 1, 2026.
Cynthia Erivo previously completed the New York Marathon in 2016.
Season Trajectory
This influx of stage performers continues a long-standing tradition of celebrity engagement with one of the city's premier athletic events. Their involvement aligns the theater industry with the wider competitive landscape of the annual marathon.
Spectators and fans planning to attend should prepare for potential transit delays across the five boroughs on race day. Attendees can track the performance of these celebrity runners alongside the professional field as they finish the race in Central Park.
The takeaway
Engaging in large-scale athletic events can be an effective way to amplify charitable causes. Fans of Broadway and running can draw inspiration from the diverse training efforts these performers have undertaken for the race.
Further reading
Learn more about the local athletic community in New York City Running.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Playbill.
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