An unforgettable moment unfolded at the 78th Annual Tony Awards as Sara Bareilles was overcome with emotion during the In Memoriam tribute — and was gently comforted by Cynthia Erivo, in a scene that moved millions of viewers to tears.

Held at Radio City Music Hall in New York City on June 8, 2025, the ceremony’s In Memoriam segment honored legendary figures lost in the theater world over the past year, including George Wendt, James Earl Jones, Maggie Smith, and Gavin Creel.

Bareilles, 45, and Erivo, 38, took the stage to perform a soul-stirring duet of “Tomorrow” from the beloved musical Annie. Their harmonies soared as a montage of cherished actors, directors, and creatives appeared onscreen behind them.

But the most powerful moment came at the end of the segment, when a photo of Gavin Creel — a close personal friend of Bareilles — appeared. As the lights dimmed, Bareilles visibly broke down in tears, overcome by grief. Without hesitation, Erivo wrapped her arms around her, offering comfort in a moment of raw vulnerability before the show cut to commercial.

“It’s been a remarkable year on Broadway, but it’s also been a devastating one,” Erivo said solemnly before the song began.