Renowned for his versatility, Jonathan Groff has carved a niche in both film and television, demonstrating a remarkable talent across various genres. Born in 1985 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Groff launched his career on Broadway before making a smooth transition to the big screen. From his delightful voice roles in iconic animated films like Frozen to his compelling performances in gripping dramas like Mindhunter, he has captivated audiences with his dynamic range and magnetic presence.
Groff’s unique ability to embody every character, whether it’s a charming romantic, a troubled FBI agent, or a lovable animated creature, has earned him a place among Hollywood’s elite. His performances continually deliver emotional depth, authenticity, and an undeniable charisma. With a portfolio that includes both critically acclaimed works and widely loved blockbusters, Groff’s career features an array of hidden gems and major hits alike. Below are some of the top Jonathan Groff movies and TV shows showcasing his diverse talents.
10
Lost Ollie (2022)
Jonathan Groff as Ollie
In Netflix’s Lost Ollie, adapted from William Joyce’s book Ollie’s Odyssey, Groff voices the titular character, a plush bunny embarking on an emotional quest to reunite with his young owner. This hybrid series artfully fuses live-action with CGI, creating a narrative reminiscent of beloved tales like Toy Story and The Velveteen Rabbit. Though it may not have topped the charts, this series is a poignant addition to Groff’s oeuvre, revealing his talent for infusing warmth and sincerity into his characters.
Groff’s vocal performance as Ollie captures the character’s joyful innocence and steadfast loyalty, crafting a narrative rich in emotional resonance. Appearing alongside Gina Rodriguez and Jake Johnson, Groff’s performance anchors the poignant story. Although Lost Ollie didn’t receive significant award nominations, its heartfelt storytelling and Groff’s performance resonated with audiences, marking it as a significant entry in his filmography.
9
Glee (2010-2015)
Jonathan Groff as Jesse St. James
When Glee premiered in 2009, it quickly became a cultural phenomenon, introducing Jonathan Groff as Jesse St. James, a talented and confident singer from the rival Vocal Adrenaline glee club. Groff’s character not only captured the hearts of viewers but also served as a love interest for fan-favorite Rachel Berry (Lea Michele), leading to some of the series’ most iconic moments.
Groff infused Jesse with an irresistible Broadway flair, showcasing his vocal talents through memorable musical performances. His undeniable chemistry with Michele, even amid Jesse’s morally ambiguous choices, kept audiences captivated. Although awards eluded him, Groff’s dynamic presence in the series helped establish him as a beloved figure among fans, solidifying Glee as a high point in his career.
8
Looking (2014-2015)
Jonathan Groff as Patrick Murray
In HBO’s Looking, Groff stars as Patrick Murray, a video game designer navigating modern relationships and self-discovery in San Francisco. The series received acclaim for its nuanced portrayal of contemporary gay life. Groff’s performance was characterized by vulnerability and charm, offering a relatable depiction of a young man’s journey through love and friendships.
His portrayal imbued Patrick with a blend of optimism and insecurity, enhancing the show’s character-driven storytelling. Collaborating with a talented ensemble cast, including Murray Bartlett and Frankie J. Alvarez, Groff’s performance was instrumental to the series’ reception and success. Despite its brief run, Looking garnered critical praise, earning Groff a NewNowNext award for Best New Television Actor.
7
One Life To Live (2007)
Jonathan Groff as Henry Mackler
Jonathan Groff’s career began with a memorable role on the long-running soap opera One Life to Live, where he played Henry Mackler, a high school student caught in a storyline fraught with drama and tragedy. Although his time on the soap was brief, Groff’s performance demonstrated his ability to evoke sincerity amidst the heightened emotions typical of daytime television.
His natural screen presence left a lasting impression, indicating his potential beyond the soap genre. While this part may appear minor in the context of his illustrious career, it served as an essential stepping stone, showcasing early glimpses of Groff’s impressive talent.
6
The Matrix Resurrections (2021)
Jonathan Groff as Smith
When The Matrix Resurrections hit theaters, Groff joined the iconic franchise as a reimagined version of Agent Smith. His portrayal diverged sharply from Hugo Weaving’s portrayal, offering a suave and unpredictable edge to the character. Groff’s performance was a bold shift, introducing a charismatic and complex interpretation to the beloved role.
Sharing the screen with Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss, Groff proved his capability in both intense action sequences and thought-provoking dialogues. Though opinions on Resurrections were mixed, Groff’s portrayal of Smith received significant acclaim, affirming his ability to breathe new life into iconic characters. This role exemplifies Groff’s versatility within franchise storytelling.
5
Frozen II (2019)
Jonathan Groff as Kristoff
In the highly anticipated sequel to Disney’s Frozen, Jonathan Groff reprised his role as Kristoff, the endearing ice harvester. Frozen II expands on the film’s original mythology, showcasing a more mature narrative. Unlike the first installment, Groff’s character finally received the solo spotlight he deserved with the comedic ballad “Lost in the Woods.”
Groff’s heartfelt and humorous delivery in this power ballad showcased his vocal talent while adding depth to Kristoff’s character, transforming him from a simple love interest into a vital part of the narrative. The film not only achieved commercial success but also received accolades, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song. Groff’s contribution solidified Kristoff’s status as one of Disney’s most beloved animated characters, marking Frozen II as a standout in Groff’s filmography.
4
Hamilton (2020)
Jonathan Groff as King George III
The release of the filmed version of the Tony Award-winning musical Hamilton on Disney+ allowed audiences to witness Jonathan Groff’s unforgettable portrayal of King George III. Despite limited screen time, Groff’s performance resonated powerfully with viewers, as he masterfully embodies the character’s quirky vanity and comedic flair.
His portrayal transformed each moment on stage into a comedic highlight, complete with a riveting rendition of “You’ll Be Back.” Sharing the spotlight with Lin-Manuel Miranda and Leslie Odom Jr., Groff earned a Primetime Emmy nomination, further solidifying his talent in a sea of Broadway stars. His role in Hamilton exemplifies Groff’s ability to make a significant impact in a short span, securing its position among the best of his body of work.
3
Knock At The Cabin (2023)
Jonathan Groff as Eric
M. Night Shyamalan’s Knock at the Cabin presents Groff in one of his most emotionally charged roles to date. The film, released in 2023, unfolds as a psychological thriller that places Groff’s character, Eric, at the heart of a high-stakes moral dilemma. As he confronts the extraordinary situation of his family being held hostage by strangers, Groff navigates the complexities of grief and survival.
His subtle and heartfelt performance adds depth to a harrowing narrative, showcasing Groff’s remarkable ability to connect with audiences. The dynamic between Eric and his on-screen husband, played by Ben Aldridge, creates a powerful depiction of love amidst chaos. Despite receiving mixed reviews, Groff’s portrayal is described as commendable, solidifying the film’s place among the most noteworthy in Groff’s versatile career.
2
Mindhunter (2017-2019)
Jonathan Groff as Holden Ford
In the critically acclaimed Netflix series Mindhunter, Jonathan Groff delivers a staggering performance as Holden Ford, a young FBI agent deeply immersed in the psychological study of serial killers. Based on true events, the series intricately explores the origins of criminal profiling in the 1970s. Groff’s depiction of Ford resonates with emotional complexity, drawing viewers into the unsettling world of criminal psychology.
His performance is a study in quiet intensity, exemplifying the psychological strains of his investigative work. Groff’s portrayal is further amplified by his interactions with the serial killers, bringing a palpable tension to the series. As one of the standout elements of Mindhunter, Groff helped the show garner a dedicated fanbase, making it a defining moment in his ongoing legacy.
1
Frozen (2013)
Jonathan Groff as Kristoff
Unquestionably, one of Jonathan Groff’s most impactful roles lies in Disney’s Frozen, the animated sensation that catapulted him to fame. In this beloved film, Groff voices Kristoff, the rugged ice harvester with a heartwarming connection to a quirky reindeer named Sven. The movie, directed by Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee, became a global juggernaut, leaving an indelible mark on pop culture.
Even without a full solo number, Groff’s voice work imbued Kristoff with a unique blend of humor and charm. His enchanting chemistry with Anna (Kristen Bell) and delightful interactions with Sven enriched the narrative, contributing to the film’s record-breaking success. With accolades including two Academy Awards, Frozen showcased Groff’s subtle yet impactful contributions, solidifying Kristoff as a beloved character among fans. This entry not only stands out in Groff’s career but also represents a pinnacle in animated storytelling.