Massachusetts born Alex Newell showed his interest in performing from an early age, joining his school’s choir, drama and costume clubs and singing in his local church’s choir. Despite never having formal voice tuition Newell submitted a speculative audition tape to the top US reality TV show The Glee Project and made such an impression the producers gave him a role in the associated show – the award-winning Glee. He was lauded for his positive and nuanced portrayal of shy transgender teen Unique Adams and became a regular and much-loved cast member.

Known for his strong vocals and engaging performance style has been invited to sing at various events such as the Coachella Festival, Radio One’s Big Weekend and the Governor’s Ball Music Festival. In 2013 Newell signed with Big Beat Records to release his first album and worked on a series of collaborations with the likes of Clean Bandit, Nile Rodgers, Diane Warren and DJ Cassidy. He has since supported Adam Lambert on tour and made his Broadway debut in 2017 in the revival of Once On This Island, contributing to the show’s Grammy nominated album.

A regular at LGBTQ+ events and fundraisers Newell is committed to raising awareness for various projects and charities such as The Human Rights Campaign and The Trevor Project. He was given a Special Recognition Award in 2015 at the GLAAD Media Awards which honours those who work to portray the LGBTQ+ community positively in the media.