Colin Donnell, born on October 9, 1982, in St. Louis, Missouri, is an American actor and singer whose dynamic presence has graced both Broadway stages and television screens.
With Irish and French ancestry, Donnell’s passion for the performing arts took root early, sparked by high school choir performances and circus-inspired stage roles.
A graduate of Indiana University’s theater program in 2005, he seamlessly transitioned from local theater to national prominence, blending his musical talents with charismatic acting.
Known for roles in Arrow, Chicago Med, and Broadway’s Anything Goes, Donnell’s career reflects a relentless drive and a deep connection to his craft, balanced by a grounded family life with his wife, actress Patti Murin, and their two daughters.
Siblings
Colin grew up as the youngest of three boys in a tight-knit family, with older brothers Ryan Donnell and Jason Donnell.
While little is publicly documented about Ryan and Jason’s personal or professional lives, their presence in Colin’s upbringing fostered a supportive environment that nurtured his artistic ambitions.
Raised by their Irish father, Ben Donnell, and French mother, Francoise Donnell, a literary expert, the Donnell brothers shared a household where creativity and expression were valued.
Career
Donnell’s career began on the stage, where his musical theater roots flourished.
After graduating from Indiana University, he toured nationally with productions like Mamma Mia! and Wicked, honing his skills as a singer and performer.
His Broadway debut came in 2005 as Hank Majewski in Jersey Boys, followed by a standout performance as Billy Crocker in the 2011 revival of Anything Goes, opposite Sutton Foster.
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This role showcased his vocal prowess and dance ability, earning him critical acclaim.
He later starred as Berowne in Love’s Labour’s Lost (2013) and Monty in Violet (2014), further cementing his reputation as a versatile theater actor.
Transitioning to television, Donnell made his debut in 2011 as Mike Ruskin in ABC’s Pan Am.
His breakout role came in 2012 as Tommy Merlyn in The CW’s Arrow, where his portrayal of the charming yet tragic best friend of Oliver Queen captivated audiences.
Despite the character’s death in season one, Donnell returned for guest appearances, including as alternate versions like Prometheus in the “Crisis on Earth-X” crossover.
From 2014 to 2015, he played Scotty Lockhart in Showtime’s The Affair, showcasing his ability to tackle complex, dramatic roles.
His longest-running role was as Dr. Connor Rhodes in NBC’s Chicago Med (2015–2019), a trauma surgeon whose emotional depth resonated with viewers.
Donnell also appeared in Chicago Fire and Chicago P.D., expanding his presence in the Chicago franchise.
Recent projects include the Peacock series Irreverent (2022), the Hallmark movie Love on Iceland (2020), and a guest role as Brian Lange in FBI: International (2024).
In 2022, he and Patti Murin released a joint album, Something Stupid, featuring pop and Broadway covers, highlighting his enduring love for music.
Accolades
Donnell’s performance in Anything Goes (2011–2012) earned nominations for a Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actor in a Musical, an Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Musical, and an Astaire Award for Outstanding Male Dancer, reflecting his triple-threat capabilities.
His contribution to the Anything Goes cast recording also received a Grammy nomination.
In 2005, Indiana University honored him with the Outstanding Senior Project Award for his contributions to their Individualized Major Program, an early nod to his potential.
Donnell’s work in Chicago Med and Arrow has solidified his fan base, with his performances often cited for their emotional authenticity and charm.
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