Adrian Bailey, a beloved Broadway veteran known for his powerful performances and enduring career, died at 67. The actor, whose career spanned over three decades, starred in 15 Broadway shows and left an indelible mark on the theater community. Bailey passed away on September 22, 2024, at a rehabilitation facility in New York following a fall in his apartment earlier in the year.
Bailey made his Broadway debut in 1976 in “Your Arms Too Short to Box with God” and went on to star in numerous productions, including “Dreamgirls,” “La Cage aux Folles,” “The Who’s Tommy,” and “Smokey Joe’s Cafe.” His career culminated in his performance in “The Little Mermaid,” where he portrayed an ensemble member and understudy for King Triton.
His time on stage was cut short in 2008 after a tragic accident during a rehearsal. Bailey fell through a trapdoor before a Saturday matinee performance, causing serious injuries that would alter the course of his life.
Following the incident, Bailey underwent several surgeries to recover from fractured wrists, a broken back, a shattered pelvis, and multiple other injuries. Despite the severity of the accident, Bailey displayed resilience. In an interview, he said, “My life has been changed forever. It will never be the same. My immediate goal is to somehow be able to walk up to my own apartment and care for myself. I try to stay positive. I look forward to being made whole someday.”
In the years following his accident, Bailey largely remained out of the public eye but occasionally attended theater events and remained connected to the Broadway community.
Lucie Arnaz Luckinbill, who performed with Bailey in “My One and Only,” honored him in a social media post, announcing his passing and describing him as a gentle giant with extraordinary talent and compassion. She also recognized the immense challenges he faced in his recovery after the accident, noting how he spent years relearning basic skills in his fight for survival.
Bailey’s death has brought an outpouring of heartfelt tributes on social media, with many recalling his talent, perseverance, and kind nature. Playwright Patrick L. Riley spoke of Bailey as an ancestor, sharing that he was loved by so many, including himself, and wished him peace.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, Bailey’s journey to the stage began early. His combination of singing, dancing, and acting skills made him a fixture in the Broadway world. His credits spanned various roles and genres, from musicals like “Jelly’s Last Jam” to dramas like “Prince of Central Park.” His performance in “Sophisticated Ladies” in 1982 cemented his status as a respected performer in the theater world.
Bailey’s family has yet to announce details of a public memorial. Still, his colleagues and friends are expected to honor his memory through special tributes and performances soon.