So, you’ve probably heard of the EGOT, winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony is basically the ultimate achievement in showbiz. Very few stars ever pull it off. But a surprising number are just one award away from this legendary status. Here’s a look at some of the biggest names in music, movies, and theater who are oh-so-close to completing their EGOT run. It’s a wild mix of icons, legends, and rising talents, and each one is just a single trophy short of joining an exclusive club. Let’s check out who’s on the verge!
Adele
The world-renowned singer from London, Adele, has already collected an impressive array of awards. With 16 Grammys for her powerful music, an Oscar for the James Bond theme "Skyfall," and a 2022 Emmy for her TV special Adele: One Night Only, she has proven her dominance in music and television. Her soulful voice and emotionally rich songs have made her one of the most successful artists of her generation.
To complete the prestigious EGOT set, Adele just needs to win a Tony Award. This would mean taking her talents to the Broadway stage. Given her captivating stage presence and ability to tell a story through song, it is easy to picture her succeeding in a musical or writing music for a theatrical production. Many are watching to see if she will take on this new challenge.
Audra McDonald
Audra McDonald is a titan of the Broadway stage, holding the record for the most Tony Awards won by a performer, with six. She has also earned two Grammy Awards for her work on classical and opera recordings, as well as an Emmy for a televised performance of the musical Sweeney Todd. Her incredible vocal talent and acting range have made her a living legend in the theater community.
The only award McDonald needs to secure her EGOT is an Oscar. Although she is best known for her work on stage, her talent could easily translate to a powerful role on the big screen. Finding the right film project could be the final piece of the puzzle for this extraordinary performer.
Barbra Streisand
Barbra Streisand is one of the most iconic and decorated entertainers of all time. Her career includes eight Grammy Awards, four Emmys, and two Oscars. She also received a special, non-competitive Tony Award in 1970. She is a legend in every sense of the word.
To officially complete a competitive EGOT, Streisand would need to win a competitive Tony Award. Though she is already a Broadway legend, a win in a competitive category would formalize her status as one of the few to achieve this incredible milestone.
Ben Platt
Ben Platt shot to stardom with his incredible performance in the Broadway musical Dear Evan Hansen. For that role, he won a Tony Award for Best Actor, a Grammy for the cast album, and a Daytime Emmy for a televised performance of a song from the show. He achieved three-quarters of an EGOT from a single project.
To complete his journey to EGOT status, Ben Platt needs an Oscar. As he continues to build his film career, finding a role that showcases his unique blend of vocal talent and emotional acting could be his ticket to winning the final award.
Bette Midler
Bette Midler is a dynamic performer who has conquered music, stage, and screen. She has three Grammy Awards, three Emmy Awards, and two Tony Awards, including a recent win for the revival of Hello, Dolly!. Her larger-than-life personality and immense talent have made her a beloved entertainer.
The final award Midler needs for her EGOT is a competitive Oscar. She has been nominated twice for Best Actress, but has yet to win. A role that fully captures her unique blend of humor and heart could be the key to securing this last major award.
Cher
A true cultural phenomenon, Cher has excelled in music, film, and television for over six decades. She won an Oscar for her role in Moonstruck, a Grammy for the dance hit "Believe," and an Emmy for her television special Cher: The Farewell Tour. Her ability to continually reinvent herself has made her a true entertainment legend.
To complete her EGOT, Cher needs to win a Tony Award. With her dynamic stage presence and iconic musical catalog, a Broadway show centered around her life and music seems like a natural fit. Such a project could easily earn her the final award needed to complete the set.
Common
The rapper and actor Common has successfully crossed over from music to film and television. He has three Grammy Awards for his music, an Oscar for the song "Glory" (shared with John Legend), and an Emmy for his song "Letter to the Free" from the documentary 13th. His thoughtful lyrics and compelling performances have earned him critical acclaim.
A Tony Award is the last piece of the puzzle for Common to achieve EGOT status. He has already proven his acting chops in various films, and a transition to the Broadway stage could be a powerful next step in his multifaceted career.
Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo is a true powerhouse, having already collected a Tony, Grammy, and Emmy. She won her Tony for Best Actress in the Broadway revival of The Color Purple and a Grammy for the cast album. Her Emmy came from a televised performance with her castmates on the Today show, showcasing her incredible vocal talent.
To finish her EGOT journey, Erivo needs to win an Academy Award. She has already been nominated for her roles in Harriet and the upcoming film Wicked, which shows her capabilities as a film actress are well-recognized. As she continues to take on compelling roles, many believe it's only a matter of time before she takes home an Oscar.
Cynthia Nixon
Best known for her role in Sex and the City, Cynthia Nixon has built an impressive and versatile career. She has won two Emmy Awards (one for Sex and the City and another for a guest role on Law & Order: SVU), two Tony Awards for her work on Broadway, and a Grammy for Best Spoken Word Album for her narration of An Inconvenient Truth.
To complete her EGOT, Nixon needs to win an Oscar. Her work in film has been well-received, and with her proven acting ability across television and stage, finding a film role that earns her an Academy Award is a definite possibility for this talented performer.
Ellen Burstyn
Ellen Burstyn is an acclaimed actress with a career spanning over six decades. She won a Tony Award in 1975 for her stage work, and in the same year, won an Oscar for the film Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore. She also has two Emmy awards for her roles in television, showcasing her talent across all three mediums.
To complete her EGOT, Burstyn needs a Grammy Award. Like many other esteemed actors, she could achieve this by narrating an audiobook or participating in a spoken word album. This final award would be a fitting tribute to her long and distinguished career.
Eminem
Widely regarded as one of the most influential rappers of all time, Eminem has a decorated career. He holds 15 Grammy Awards for his groundbreaking music and won an Oscar for his song "Lose Yourself" from the movie 8 Mile. He also earned an Emmy for his performance in the Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show, putting him just one step away from the EGOT.
To complete the set, Eminem needs a Tony Award. While the world of Broadway might seem like an unexpected next step for the rapper, his skill as a lyricist and storyteller could translate well to the stage. Whether through a musical based on his life or by contributing original songs to a new show, he has the potential to make a mark in theater.
Helen Mirren
A true acting legend, Helen Mirren has demonstrated her incredible range across stage, screen, and television. She has an Oscar for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II in The Queen, a Tony for playing the same monarch in the play The Audience, and four Emmy Awards for her television work. Her career is a testament to her immense talent and dedication.
To complete her EGOT, Mirren needs a Grammy Award. While not primarily a musical artist, her distinctive voice makes her an ideal candidate for a spoken word album or audiobook narration. Given her esteemed career, winning a Grammy in this category seems like a very achievable goal.
H.E.R.
The talented singer-songwriter H.E.R. has quickly risen to the top of the music industry. She already holds five Grammy Awards for her R&B music, an Oscar for her song "Fight for You" from Judas and the Black Messiah, and a Children's and Family Emmy for her work on the animated series We the People. At a young age, she is already on the verge of an EGOT.
To complete the set, H.E.R. needs to win a Tony Award. Her musical abilities would make her a natural fit for Broadway, either as a performer or as a composer for a new musical. Her journey toward the final award will be exciting to watch.
Hugh Jackman
Hugh Jackman is a remarkably versatile performer, excelling in acting, singing, and dancing. He has already earned a Tony Award for his leading role in The Boy From Oz, a Grammy for the soundtrack of The Greatest Showman, and an Emmy for hosting the Tony Awards ceremony. From his iconic role as Wolverine to his dazzling musical performances, Jackman's talent is celebrated across different genres.
The final award Jackman needs to achieve EGOT status is an Oscar. He was nominated for his powerful performance as Jean Valjean in the film adaptation of Les Misérables, but did not win. With his dedication and ability to tackle both dramatic and musical roles, it seems only a matter of time before he secures that final, coveted award.
Julie Andrews
Julie Andrews is a beloved entertainment icon whose career has spanned decades. She won an Oscar for her role in Mary Poppins, three Grammy Awards, and two Emmys for her television specials. Her performances in classics like The Sound of Music have made her a cherished figure for generations of fans.
Despite her legendary status on Broadway, Julie Andrews has never won a competitive Tony Award, which is the last award she needs for an EGOT. She was nominated three times for her stage roles. Many feel it is long overdue for this theatrical icon to receive the honor.
Kate Winslet
Kate Winslet is one of her generation's most acclaimed actresses, with an impressive collection of awards. She won an Oscar for her role in The Reader, two Emmys for her performances in the HBO series Mildred Pierce and Mare of Easttown, and a Grammy for the children's spoken word album Listen to the Storyteller. Her career is marked by a range of memorable and complex roles.
The only award missing from Winslet's collection is a Tony. She has yet to perform on a Broadway stage, but her powerful acting skills would be a natural fit for theater. A move to Broadway could be the final step for her to secure the coveted EGOT status.
Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga is a global pop superstar who has also proven herself to be a formidable actress. She has 14 Grammy Awards for her music, an Oscar for her song "Shallow" from A Star Is Born, and a Sports Emmy for her performance at the Super Bowl pregame show. Her versatility as an artist is truly remarkable.
To achieve EGOT status, Lady Gaga needs a Tony Award. With her theatrical style and powerful voice, she would be a natural on the Broadway stage. Whether starring in a musical or writing one, a venture into theater seems like a logical and exciting next step for her.
Lily Tomlin
Lily Tomlin is a comedy legend whose career has spanned over 50 years. She has won six Emmy Awards for her work in television, a Grammy for her comedy album, and two Tony Awards for her one-woman shows. Her unique characters and sharp wit have made her an icon.
The only award missing from her collection is an Oscar. She was nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the 1975 film Nashville. A final, memorable film role could be the capstone to her illustrious career and secure her place in the EGOT circle.
Lin-Manuel Miranda
Lin-Manuel Miranda is a creative genius who has redefined modern musical theater. He is the mastermind behind the Broadway hit Hamilton, which earned him multiple Tony and Grammy Awards. He also has two Emmy Awards for his television work, placing him just one award away from an EGOT.
The final award Miranda needs is an Oscar. He has been nominated for his songs in the Disney films Moana and Encanto, but has yet to win. Given his incredible talent for songwriting, it seems inevitable that he will eventually take home an Academy Award.
Liza Minnelli
Liza Minnelli, a star of stage and screen, has a collection of awards that speaks to her legendary career. She has won three Tony Awards, an Oscar for her unforgettable role in Cabaret, and an Emmy for her 1973 television special, Liza With a "Z". Her energetic performances and powerful voice have captivated audiences for decades.
The only award Minnelli is missing for a competitive EGOT is a Grammy. She received a special Grammy Legend Award in 1990, but a competitive win is needed to officially join the EGOT club. Given her musical talent, it's surprising she has yet to secure one.
Martin Scorsese
One of the most celebrated filmmakers in history, Martin Scorsese has a long list of acclaimed films to his name. He won an Oscar for Best Director for The Departed, two Emmys for his documentary and television work, and a Grammy for a music film. His influence on cinema is undeniable.
The final award Scorsese needs for an EGOT is a Tony. He directed a musical in 1977, but was not nominated. He could potentially win as a producer for a Broadway play or musical, which would add another impressive achievement to his legendary career.
Paul McCartney
As a member of The Beatles and a successful solo artist, Paul McCartney is a true music legend. He has 18 Grammy Awards, an Oscar for the score of the film Let It Be, and a 2022 Emmy for the documentary series The Beatles: Get Back. His contributions to music are immeasurable and have influenced countless artists.
To complete the EGOT, Paul McCartney needs a Tony Award. While he hasn't focused on theater, his songwriting genius could easily be adapted for a Broadway musical. A show featuring his music could be a massive hit and earn him that final prestigious award.
Ringo Starr
Ringo Starr, the iconic drummer for The Beatles, also has a decorated career. Like his bandmate Paul McCartney, he has won an Oscar for the film Let It Be and an Emmy for the documentary The Beatles: Get Back. He also has nine Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award.
A Tony Award is the only thing standing between Ringo Starr and an EGOT. While he is not known for theatrical work, his contributions to music are legendary. It's possible he could earn a Tony as a producer or contributor to a Broadway show, especially one celebrating the music of The Beatles.
Ron Howard
From child actor to acclaimed director, Ron Howard has had a remarkable career in Hollywood. He won two Oscars for directing and producing A Beautiful Mind, two Emmys for his work on the shows From the Earth to the Moon and Arrested Development, and a Grammy for the documentary The Beatles: Eight Days a Week. His work has left a lasting impact on both film and television.
To achieve EGOT status, Ron Howard needs a Tony Award. Though his career has been focused on the screen, his skill as a storyteller and director could make him a formidable force in the theater world. Whether he chooses to direct or produce a Broadway show, this final award is well within his reach.
Trey Parker and Matt Stone
The creative duo behind the long-running animated series South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, are known for their sharp satire and fearless comedy. They have won five Emmy Awards for South Park and a Grammy and two Tonys for their hit Broadway musical, The Book of Mormon. Their work has consistently pushed boundaries in entertainment.
To complete their EGOT, both Parker and Stone need to win an Oscar. They were nominated for Best Original Song for a song from the South Park movie, but did not win. Given their talent for creating memorable music and stories, an Oscar win for a future film project is a real possibility.
