The 2026 Tony Awards showcased unexpected outcomes, particularly with 'Ragtime' and 'Cats: The Jellicle Ball' competing fiercely. 'Ragtime' emerged victorious with four awards, including Best Musical Revival, while 'Cats' secured three, including Best Direction for Zhailon Levingston and Bill Rauch. A major surprise came in the Best Featured Actor in a Musical category, where Ali Louis Bourzgui won for his portrayal of the charismatic vampire leader in 'The Lost Boys,' beating out theater veteran André De Shields, who was favored for his role in 'Cats.' Bourzgui's acceptance speech highlighted issues of fascism and support for Arab artists. In the Best Featured Actor in a Play category, Alden Ehrenreich from 'Becky Shaw' triumphed over Christopher Abbott from 'Death of a Salesman.' Additionally, John Lithgow won Best Lead Actor in a Play for his performance in 'Giant,' defeating Nathan Lane. Notably, several productions, including 'The Rocky Horror Show,' 'Two Strangers,' and 'Titaníque,' left the ceremony without any awards despite multiple nominations.