Ryan McCartan is an American actor and singer known for his work in television and on Broadway, delivering notable performances that showcase his versatility across various productions. After winning Best Performance by an Actor at the prestigious Jimmy Awards in 2011, Ryan McCartan transitioned from acclaimed regional theater, including Minnetonka’s first production of ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ that same year, into professional acting. He gained national recognition for his recurring role as Diggie Smalls on the Disney Channel series ‘Liv and Maddie,’ appearing in 27 episodes from 2013 to 2017, which showcased his comedic timing and brought him widespread recognition. McCartan further solidified his stage presence by originating the role of Jason ‘J.D.’ Dean in the 2013 world premiere of ‘Heathers: The Musical’ in Los Angeles, a critically acclaimed role he reprised Off-Broadway in 2014.
In 2016, he portrayed Brad Majors in the Fox musical television film ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show: Let’s Do the Time Warp Again,’ further demonstrating his versatility in musical productions. His esteemed stage career led to his Broadway debut as Fiyero in ‘Wicked’ in 2018, followed by his performance as Prince Hans in the Broadway production of ‘Frozen’ in 2020, and subsequently in its U.S. National Tour. Demonstrating his versatility across mediums, McCartan has also made significant contributions to film and television.
McCartan continues to expand his impressive theatrical resume with his most recent and highly anticipated role as the titular character, Jay Gatsby, in ‘The Great Gatsby’ on Broadway, which began in January 2025. This latest achievement underscores his consistent demand in major theatrical productions and his ability to tackle iconic roles. His dynamic range and proven success across television, film, and Broadway further solidify his position as a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry.