November 23, 2007

Thank You, John Lloyd Young!

November 23rd, 2007

Photos 1-24 Courtesy of BroadwayWorld.com

It’s not often that I’m at a loss for words, but saying goodbye to John Lloyd Young as he leaves Jersey Boys has been tough.

With so many fans expressing their heartfelt well wishes and eloquent goodbyes to John Lloyd on Jersey Boys Blog and on the JBB Bulletin Board, I wondered what else I could say to the actor who has brought so much joy to so many people’s lives on the stage every night in Jersey Boys, at the stage door, on his television appearances, in his interviews, and with his outstanding philanthropic efforts?

Although I predicted Jersey Boys to win a Tony to Dale back in La Jolla in 2004, seeing John Lloyd Young playing Frankie Valli on Broadway on November 12, 2005 brought the experience to a whole new level! It was unforgettable to see this mild-mannered looking audience dancing in their seats and giving this amazing cast not one, but three standing ovations!

On our return trip to New York, in July 2006, we had the opportunity to interview many cast members for Jersey Boys Blog. We had an incredible welcoming from all of the cast members! I recall turning to Dale before meeting with JLY and saying in my wound-up way, “OMG, we’re about ready to interview a frickin’ Tony winner!” John Lloyd Young couldn’t have been more genuine, appreciative, and gracious, as he thanked us for creating Jersey Boys Blog, and noted that his family reads it all the time! A Tony winner is thanking us?!?! Although I had a list of questions prepared, John Lloyd’s spontaneity made this interview all the more incredible!

On a return visit during the spring of 2007, I had the opportunity to interview JLY for a second time, which turned into a marvelous three-part series on the blog! Again, before the interview questions began, John Lloyd thanked me for “bringing fans together” with the blog! He was amazingly candid as he told me what it’s been like for him nearly a year after the Tonys; what he learned in “TV College”; and what he has discovered about himself since playing Frankie Valli.

As we were finishing up the interview, I mentioned how excited I was to bring my brother Craig to see Jersey Boys later in the week. JLY immediately said, “I’ll make sure you and Craig are on the backstage list Tuesday night.” After seeing the most incredible show, the cast welcomed and chatted with my brother like he was a “regular.” JLY not only welcomed him, but also spent an amazing amount of extra time talking with Craig after he finished chatting and taking photos with so many other fans. In the words of my astounded brother, “You weren’t kidding about this guy!”

I could keep going and going and going, like that Energizer Bunny, but I will close by saying thank you to John Lloyd Young for his extraordinary talent as an actor and singer; his genuine kindness to fans; his generosity and commitment to causes; and for making this blogger feel like a “Big (Wo)Man in Town”!

John Lloyd Young—you have a heart of gold and spectacular career ahead of you! We are all looking forward to following you on your next journey! Thank you!

28 Comments »

  1. Thank You Susie and Dale, the pictures hit me like a ton of bricks..What a pleasant surprise, I just sat and went through them 3 times..I’m going back for more:) JLY will always be “Frankie”. But wonderful things are about to happen for him, and I’m so glad we will all be there when it does..O.K. going back to the pictures :) …Jody

    Comment by Jody Cardillo — November 23, 2007 @ 11:39 pm

  2. Susie, this is an absolutely beautiful retropspective. Yes, JLY is a magnificent performer, so graciously humbled by his success, and a wonderful human being, but your interviews have brought out his refreshing candor and enabled us to appreciate him even more.

    I’m still struck with John’s analogy to Miss America’s reign ending and handing over the torch. Yes, in a sense, John is handing over the torch to Michael. But he will always be known as Tony Winner John Lloyd Young, and at least for now, as “Frankie Valli”.

    I look back forty years to Barbra Streisand as Fanny Brice in “Funny Girl” on both stage and screen. Barbra WAS Fanny–they looked and sounded alike. Yes, she still sings “People” (as John’s audiences will insist on CTMEOY–get used to it, John!!), but look how Barbra’s career has evolved and how much she’s accomplished.

    Frankie may be the springboard, but talent always wins out, and John may someday be bigger than Barbra–and won’t even need his proverbial chair!!

    Thanks in large part to you, Susie, all of us lived this amazing journey along with John Lloyd Young, and we’ll continue to be a part of him, and he of us. An awesome future awaits, John–enjoy the ride!!

    Comment by Howard Tucker — November 24, 2007 @ 12:49 am

  3. My wife and I happened to have had the pleasure to meet with JLY on what would be his last night performing as Frankie, Friday November 9th. He was what everyone has said, extremely gracious. We must have met with him for close to 45 minutes right before his last show.

    We would just like to wish JLY our best for being the best. Hope to see you performing next year.

    Jerry & Andrea D …

    Comment by Jerry D — November 24, 2007 @ 1:27 am

  4. A fitting farewell to the original “Frankie Valli” on Broadway in “Jersey Boys.” My wife and I had the good fortune of seeing John Lloyd Young perform in the role three times (out of three, including the other three “Seasons,” Daniel, Christian, and J. Robert), and each performance was worthy of his “Best Leading Actor in a Musical” Tony Award. I look forward to seeing much more of John Lloyd’s work on Broadway (and in other venues in and around New York City) in future productions and other types of entertainments. All the best to JLY!

    Comment by Len Gersten — November 24, 2007 @ 6:19 am

  5. Susie, what a wonderful tribute. It was like a walk down memory lane looking at those pictures. It was nice to hear about your personal experiences with JLY as well.
    Thanks to both you and Dale for creating this wonderful place and bringing us all closer together on a daily basis.

    Comment by Melissa — November 24, 2007 @ 8:11 am

  6. OK Susie, Big Girls Don’t Cry at 8:30 in the morning, but this one does! How beautiful! I agree with you, it’s so difficult to find the right words after so many have expressed exactly how you feel as well…you certainly do wonder “what else can I say”. Although it’s basically the same for all of us, in each heart it’s different for it is very personal with JLY, he’s always made it that way,it’s like you’re the only one that exists when he’s talking with you, what a gift he has. God bless him and I know all of us will follow him no matter where he goes! Thanks Susie, and Dale, for starting this “whole thing”, it’s been so wonderful and will continue to be. Blessings to you both and many, many thanks from the heart (many hearts I’m sure!) Love you both!! Wanda

    Comment by Wanda — November 24, 2007 @ 8:43 am

  7. Thanks, Susie, for sharing your experiences with JLY. Your story is so representative and has been repeated thousands of times. With every autograph, every photo, every smile and kind word, John Lloyd Young has made every Jersey Boys fan feel special. Many people are star entertainers, and John will be that for as long as he wants to be, but John is much more: a star as a human being. JLY, thanks for everything you’ve done and will do. We wish you all the luck in the world. Charles

    Comment by Charles Alexander — November 24, 2007 @ 9:24 am

  8. If this doesn’t tug at your heart…nothing will.

    Comment by Gary — November 24, 2007 @ 10:59 am

  9. Since the tribute we delivered to John at the stage door the night before Thanksgiving, I have been trying to come to terms with the reality that he has indeed left the show. I haven’t allowed myself to admit this fact yet. The pictures you chose to display struck an additonal emotional chord. They represent the many Jersey Boys’ milestones and memories we all have of this incredulous actor, who rose to such heights, gained our admiration, and became our friend. We all had to see him perform multiple times and then some…If this were not already enough, many wonderful and lasting friendships developed because of our shared devotion to this play. I anxiously await JLY’s two performances at Lincoln Center on February 23rd and everything he undertakes beyond that…the limits of which are wide-open! Thanks Susie and Dale for posting these past memories and for being there to capture the future ones still ahead!

    Comment by Beverley Micciche — November 24, 2007 @ 11:15 am

  10. Susie and Dale,

    What a beautiful, heartfelt tribute to JLY. He has truly been an inspiration and blessing to all those who have met him and watched him in the role of a lifetime. Somehow, I think he will have many future roles of a lifetime and all of us will be there to watch him, support him and thank him.

    Thank you, Susie and Dale, for all your initiative and hard work in bringing so many wonderful people together. It couldn’t have happened – WITHOUT YOU. Love, Irene Eizen

    Comment by irene eizen — November 24, 2007 @ 12:04 pm

  11. Thank you for preparing such a wonderful tribute to John Lloyd Young’s journey as a Jersey Boy! Love the pictures, and the sentiments expressed by Susie, Dale and all the fans who have seen this play over and over again.

    Comment by Helen — November 24, 2007 @ 2:41 pm

  12. Wow, you’ve summed JLY’s “specialness” up wonderfully. He has always been so gracious and sweet to everyone and we love him for that. We had such a nice time Wednesday night at the stage door, just hanging with him and all his fans. What a great sendoff for a great guy.
    Love you JLY see you on the next front whatever that will be!

    Tricia and Andie

    Comment by Tricia and Andie — November 24, 2007 @ 2:46 pm

  13. Awww….Susie & Dale what a beautiful tribute. JL really does touch the hearts of everyone he meets. God has blessed him with sooo many gifts….Jersey Boys was just the beginning.

    Much Love and Blessings,
    Charly

    Comment by Charly — November 24, 2007 @ 5:11 pm

  14. Susie, this was so wonderful and beautifully written. Great job wording what we all feel!

    Comment by Lauren — November 24, 2007 @ 6:11 pm

  15. Thanks from me too Susie and Dale. A real trip down memory lane with those wonderful pictures! (Does John take a bad pic.?…….I don’t think so!) John, I’m looking forward to following all your future endeavors! Have a relaxing time on your road trip!
    “Hugs”
    Jan (in lieu of not being able to give you one in
    person on Nov. 21st.)

    Comment by Jan Haas — November 24, 2007 @ 7:31 pm

  16. Susie & Dale,
    This tribute to JLY is beautiful.
    Thanks for the memories. Looking at the photos of
    all the events he shared with us bring smiles to our faces. This is only the begining of many great things ahead for JLY.

    All The Best to JLY and his family.

    Damaris & Joe Dugan

    Comment by Damaris Dugan — November 24, 2007 @ 9:10 pm

  17. Wow, as I was looking at these special photos you selected, Andre Rieu was playing Sinatra’s “My Way” at Radio City Music Hall on PBS. Such a flood of emotions and memories.

    Thanks for sharing your history (and interviews!) with John Lloyd, Susie. He will always be a Jersey Boy (maybe even back on a JB stage…. sorry, I’m still in the denial phase) and I look forward to seeing all the breaking news on his many future projects right here.

    Comment by Audrey — November 24, 2007 @ 9:26 pm

  18. Hi, Beverley,

    I am feeling the same way you are. My daughter, son-in-law, grandkids and I were in the car today. The JB CD started to play and I really choked up. Listening to JLY’s voice – so beautiful and knowing how hard he has worked to get to where he is – I really thought of all the wonderful performances of JB in which I saw him. The show is fabulous as are all the actors. But something definitely will be missing now that JLY has departed the show. IE

    Comment by irene eizen — November 24, 2007 @ 11:36 pm

  19. # 19… Irene I just read your post..I’m in tears!!!!I love these pictures, and it’s true. You listen to JLY singing, WOW!!! There are no words…Your right, I love all the actors, I really do…But I hear John Singing and……..Jody

    Comment by Jody Cardillo — November 25, 2007 @ 1:01 am

  20. I’m happy for John!! I’M HAPPY FOR JOHN!!

    Comment by grace ruggiero — November 25, 2007 @ 1:56 am

  21. The pictures will be a keepsake of the wonderful memories John Lloyd Young gave to everyone. At times I find it hard listening to the JB CD because I think of JLY not being there. I know there are great things coming for him and I look forward with great anticipation to his show at Lincoln Center.
    Thanks for the great pictures.
    Albie

    Comment by Albie — November 25, 2007 @ 8:36 am

  22. So many fans have written in to express their pain at the loss of JLY as Frankie that it seems impossible to add anything new, but I feel I must write something. His most loyal fans understand the amazing ride we have been on, and it is nearly impossible to imagine the show without him. I am pinning my hopes on an orignial-cast renunion in the future. Though I will miss the heart-stopping moment (that continues until the final curtain) at the begining of the show when he runs across the upper stage to sing with Christian, I know that we will adore JLY in his next role and the thrill will continue.
    Thank you John Lloyd. I wish you the very best.

    Comment by L — November 25, 2007 @ 9:23 am

  23. I will miss JLY as Frankie so much, and I second everyone’s comments. John’s portrayal of Valli has given me such pleasure, and has lifted my spirits on some very depressive days. You can’t have a bad day when you are listening to JLY! I know John will go far, and I wish him the best in the future.

    Comment by Elissa — November 25, 2007 @ 5:34 pm

  24. Susie and Dale,

    Thank you for this lovely, heartfelt tribute to John. It is almost impossible to put into words the emotions that so many of us are feeling at this time, but you have done so beautifully. All of us who have had the privledge of knowing John are aware of what a special man he is, and feel fortunate to be part of the incredible ride he has had with Jersey Boys these past two years. John has an incredibly bright future ahead, and it will be a pleasure to continue to follow along.

    Pamela

    Comment by Pamela — November 25, 2007 @ 6:57 pm

  25. It takes a very special person to be so willing to make these human connections that are so rare nowadays. John Lloyd Young, you’re a treasure and an angel. Looking forward to EVERYTHING good this world has to offer for you.
    May you always be very, VERY blessed!!
    Italian hugs,
    Lucy

    Comment by Lucy — November 25, 2007 @ 9:21 pm

  26. Great tribute to JLY! Well done!

    Comment by Tina Cherie — November 25, 2007 @ 11:28 pm

  27. Thanks so much!! All of us fans recognized those pictures instantly. From the rehearsal photos to the Oct. 21st event, it’s been sheer joy getting to meet this young man and watching him perform. We’re all going to be along for the ride as we await John’s next performace and all the ones after that. It couldn’t happen to a nicer guy.

    Comment by LindaL — November 26, 2007 @ 10:50 am

  28. Its a pleasure to be a four seasons fan and a jersey boys fan, and as a young kid from newark myself i commend you jly and im sure the late machocci (nick massi) would also for the way you made the 4-seasons alive again. You are a true talent and it may feel a little empty now for us jersey boys fans because your gone now from the show but somehow somewhere sometime i see you on stage at least one more time as frankie, i just see it somehow………………jp

    Comment by james petrecca — November 30, 2007 @ 12:23 am

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