Tommy Dorfman's Journey: Divorce, Broadway, and Beyond

In a significant turn of events, Tommy Dorfman, widely recognized for her compelling role in the Netflix series "13 Reasons Why" and her powerful advocacy for the transgender community, has recently filed for divorce from her wife, Elise Williams. This personal development, which comes after nearly two years of marriage, coincides with a vibrant period in Dorfman's professional life, particularly her continued and impactful presence on Broadway. This article offers an in-depth look into the circumstances surrounding the divorce, explores Dorfman's notable Broadway endeavors, and highlights other significant milestones in her evolving career and life, examining how these experiences intertwine to shape her public persona and artistic contributions.

The End of a Marriage: Tommy Dorfman and Elise Williams

The marriage between Tommy Dorfman and Elise Williams, which began in 2023, has formally concluded with Dorfman's recent filing for divorce. The news, initially reported by various reputable outlets including People Magazine, cited irreconcilable differences as the underlying reason for the split. While the public has yet to hear a direct statement from Dorfman regarding the divorce, as noted by the Daily Mail, her focus appears steadfast on her professional commitments, including a promotional tour for her recently released book, "Maybe This Will Save Me."

For many observers and fans, the news of the divorce came as a surprise, given the seemingly strong and private nature of their relationship. Dorfman had previously opened up about her connection with Williams in a poignant essay for Vogue, where she revealed they met on Hinge in 2021. Their engagement, a swift decision made just two months into their relationship, was a testament to the intensity of their bond. Dorfman humorously reflected on this rapid progression, stating, "That’s the thing about falling in love though; your responsibility barometer isn’t always where it should be. Love, for us, required that nauseating combination of naiveté, delusion and fate." This candid reflection offered a rare glimpse into the emotional landscape of their union, highlighting the profound impact Williams had on Dorfman's life, especially as she navigated her gender transition.

The dissolution of a marriage, particularly one involving public figures, often invites speculation and discussion about the pressures that fame can exert on personal relationships. While the exact reasons for their split remain private, the challenges of maintaining a high-profile career alongside a deeply personal journey of transition and self-discovery can undoubtedly add layers of complexity to any partnership. Fans on social media platforms like Reddit expressed a mix of sadness and understanding, with many sending messages of support to both Dorfman and Williams, acknowledging the inherent difficulties of public life. The divorce filing itself, typically a legal formality, underscores a significant personal turning point for Dorfman, marking a new chapter in her life that will undoubtedly influence her artistic expressions and public narrative moving forward.

Tommy Dorfman and Elise Williams. Image from Reddit.

Broadway and Acting Career: A Transformative Path

Tommy Dorfman's acting career has been characterized by a dynamic blend of captivating screen performances and impactful stage roles. Her breakthrough came with her portrayal of Ryan Shaver in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "13 Reasons Why," a role that brought her widespread recognition and a significant platform. However, it is on the Broadway stage where Dorfman has more recently been making profound waves, showcasing her evolving artistry and commitment to diverse storytelling. In 2025, her presence in the theater landscape is particularly notable, with her involvement in several highly anticipated productions:

1. Romeo + Juliet: In a bold and innovative adaptation of Shakespeare's timeless tragedy, Dorfman took on the dual roles of both the Nurse and Tybalt. This challenging double casting not only highlighted her versatility but also underscored the production's modern, gender-fluid approach to classic texts.
2. Becoming Eve: This powerful play, based on the deeply personal memoir of Abby Stein, features Dorfman in a significant and resonant role. The production delves into themes of identity, faith, and transformation, offering a poignant narrative that aligns closely with Dorfman's own journey.

These roles are not merely performances; they are reflections of Dorfman's dedication to her craft and her evolving identity as an artist. She has consistently garnered acclaim for her ability to infuse her characters with both profound depth and unexpected humor, captivating audiences and critics alike. Her transition from television to the demanding world of live theater speaks volumes about her desire for artistic growth and her willingness to embrace complex, challenging narratives that resonate with contemporary audiences.

"Romeo + Juliet": A Bold, Modern Take on a Classic

Tommy Dorfman's involvement in the Broadway production of "Romeo + Juliet," sharing the stage with celebrated actors like Kit Connor and Rachel Zegler, has undoubtedly been a focal point of discussion in the theater community. Directed by the visionary Sam Gold, this adaptation takes a decidedly contemporary approach to Shakespeare's enduring tragedy. Gold's direction is known for its experimental nature, often incorporating modern elements, a minimalistic aesthetic, and, in this case, a comedic undertone that both reinterprets and challenges traditional perceptions of the play.

The production's use of modern costumes, set design, and even anachronistic elements, such as characters using cell phones, aimed to bridge the gap between Shakespeare's text and a contemporary audience. This bold artistic choice, while praised by some for its fresh perspective and accessibility, also drew criticism from purists who felt it detracted from the original's gravitas. The comedic approach, in particular, sparked debate. While it aimed to highlight the youthful impulsiveness and tragic misunderstandings, some reviewers found it to be jarring and to undermine the play's inherent tragedy.

Despite these mixed critical opinions, Dorfman's performance was consistently singled out for its brilliance. One enthusiastic Reddit user perfectly encapsulated the sentiment, exclaiming, "Tommy Dorfman absolutely ATE as the nurse/tybalt…they were both hysterical in this show!" This comment, widely upvoted, reflects a common appreciation for her ability to embody two distinct characters—the nurturing, often bawdy Nurse and the hot-headed, vengeful Tybalt—with both comedic timing and dramatic intensity. The double casting itself was a significant directorial decision, adding layers of symbolic meaning and challenging audience expectations. While some found this dual role to be potentially chaotic or distracting, Dorfman's execution was lauded for its seamless transitions and powerful portrayal, proving her remarkable range and stage presence.

The cast of Romeo and Juliet on Broadway. Image from Reddit.

"Becoming Eve": A Powerful and Resonant Experience

In "Becoming Eve," Tommy Dorfman steps into a role that resonates deeply with her own personal journey of identity and transformation. The play is a poignant adaptation of Abby Chava Stein's powerful memoir, "Becoming Eve: My Journey from Ultra-Orthodox Rabbi to Transgender Woman of Valor." Stein's story is a remarkable narrative of self-discovery, detailing her upbringing in a Hasidic community in Brooklyn, her path to becoming a rabbi, and her eventual decision to transition and embrace her true self as a woman. The play meticulously explores themes of faith, family, gender identity, and the courage required to live authentically in the face of societal and religious expectations.

The production has been widely described as a profoundly moving and essential theatrical experience, especially within the current socio-political climate marked by increasing anti-trans sentiments globally. By bringing Stein's story to the stage, "Becoming Eve" serves as both a testament to individual resilience and a powerful act of visibility and affirmation for the transgender community. The play's impact is magnified by its commitment to authentic representation, featuring a significant number of LGBT performers and crew members, which creates a truly inclusive and empathetic environment both on and off stage.

As one Reddit user from the r/gayjews community passionately shared, "I found it to be a powerful experience, especially in this grueling anti-trans moment, as it features a number of LGBT performers and crew in addition to the theme." This sentiment highlights the play's critical role in fostering understanding and challenging prejudice. Dorfman's involvement in "Becoming Eve" is particularly impactful because her own public journey as a trans woman lends an additional layer of authenticity and emotional depth to her performance. Her portrayal not only showcases her formidable acting skills but also reinforces her unwavering advocacy for transgender rights, visibility, and the crucial importance of storytelling as a tool for social change. It's a role that transcends mere performance, becoming a vital contribution to the ongoing dialogue about gender identity and acceptance.

Awards and Nominations: Acknowledging Talent and Impact

Tommy Dorfman's undeniable talent and significant contributions to the world of theater have not gone unnoticed, earning her prestigious nominations that further solidify her standing within the Broadway community. Her compelling performance in "Becoming Eve" led to a nomination for a Distinguished Performance Award, placing her among an elite group of actors. This particular nomination is highly significant, as it recognizes exceptional individual performances across various theatrical categories, and to be considered alongside acclaimed figures such as George Clooney and Jake Gyllenhaal speaks volumes about the quality and impact of her work.

Beyond critical recognition, her work in "Romeo + Juliet" also garnered considerable attention from audiences, culminating in nominations for Favorite Featured Actress in a Play at the Broadway.com Audience Choice Awards. These awards are particularly meaningful as they are voted on directly by theatergoers, reflecting the genuine connection and admiration audiences feel for her performances. Such accolades underscore her profound impact on the stage, demonstrating her ability to captivate and resonate with a diverse range of viewers. These nominations are not merely personal achievements; they also represent a broader recognition of transgender talent within mainstream theater, paving the way for more inclusive casting and storytelling on Broadway and beyond.

Other Notable Projects: Expanding Horizons

Beyond her captivating stage and screen roles, Tommy Dorfman has actively diversified her creative portfolio, showcasing a multi-faceted talent that extends across various artistic mediums. Her ventures beyond acting demonstrate a keen interest in storytelling and a commitment to bringing diverse narratives to life:

• Directing: Dorfman is poised to make her directorial debut with the film adaptation of Mariko Tamaki’s acclaimed graphic novel, "Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me." This project is a significant step, signaling her ambition to explore narratives from behind the camera. The graphic novel itself is a poignant and relatable queer coming-of-age story, exploring themes of toxic relationships, self-discovery, and friendship. Dorfman's decision to adapt this particular story highlights her commitment to LGBTQ+ narratives and her desire to helm projects that resonate with her personal values and experiences. Directing an adaptation of a beloved graphic novel presents unique challenges, requiring a nuanced understanding of visual storytelling and character development, all of which Dorfman is eager to tackle.
• Writing: She is currently on a highly anticipated tour for her new book, "Maybe This Will Save Me." This memoir is a deeply personal exploration of art, addiction, mental health, and personal transformation. Through her writing, Dorfman offers readers an intimate look into her journey, providing candid reflections on her experiences with sobriety, gender transition, and navigating the complexities of fame. The book serves as a powerful testament to the healing power of storytelling and the importance of self-acceptance, allowing her to connect with her audience on an even more profound level beyond her acting roles.
• Guest Appearances: Dorfman has also expanded her reach into popular culture through memorable guest appearances, notably on shows like "RuPaul's Drag Race." Her presence on such a culturally significant platform further amplifies her voice and visibility within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. These appearances allow her to engage with a wider audience, share her perspectives, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about queer artistry and identity, demonstrating her commitment to being an active and influential figure in the cultural landscape.

These diverse projects collectively paint a picture of an artist who is not content with limiting herself to a single medium. Instead, Dorfman is leveraging her platform to explore different facets of storytelling, using her creativity to advocate for important causes and connect with audiences on multiple levels, solidifying her status as a truly versatile and impactful cultural figure.

Challenges and Triumphs: Navigating Public Life and Personal Truth

Tommy Dorfman's journey, while marked by significant professional achievements and personal growth, has not been without its considerable challenges. Beyond the recent news of her divorce, she has openly navigated the complexities of public scrutiny and the painful reality of misgendering, a pervasive issue faced by many transgender individuals. In a widely reported incident, Dorfman confronted a Delta airline staff member over alleged misgendering, an encounter that quickly gained viral traction across social media platforms and ignited a broader public debate about respect, identity, and the systemic challenges faced by the trans community in everyday interactions. This incident, while distressing, also served as a moment of powerful advocacy, drawing attention to the importance of using correct pronouns and fostering a more inclusive environment.

Perhaps one of the most profound challenges Dorfman has spoken about publicly is the impact of her breakthrough role in "13 Reasons Why" on her personal journey of gender affirmation. She candidly shared that she believes she would have transitioned "a lot sooner" had she not been cast in the series. This revelation highlights the immense pressure and complex choices actors, particularly those from marginalized communities, often face when their public roles conflict with their private identities. Playing a cisgender male character while privately identifying as a trans woman created a significant dissonance, a period of putting her authentic self on hold for the sake of her career. This experience underscores the broader industry challenge of typecasting and the need for greater understanding and support for trans actors. Dorfman's openness about this struggle not only humanizes her experience but also sheds light on the systemic hurdles that can impede personal growth and authenticity in the entertainment industry.

Despite these very real and public challenges, Dorfman has consistently demonstrated remarkable resilience and an unwavering commitment to advocating for transgender rights and visibility. Her willingness to share her vulnerabilities and confront injustices head-on has made her a powerful voice and an inspiring figure for many within and beyond the LGBTQ+ community. Her triumphs are measured not only in her artistic successes but also in her courage to live authentically and to use her platform to fight for a more accepting and equitable world.

Community and Support: A Network of Strength

Throughout her multifaceted career and personal evolution, Tommy Dorfman has cultivated a strong network of support within the LGBTQ+ community and among her peers in the entertainment industry. These relationships have been instrumental in her journey, providing both personal solace and professional collaboration. Her close bond with fellow actor Rachel Zegler, for instance, is often highlighted publicly, showcasing a supportive friendship that transcends their professional collaborations. Zegler, known for her vocal support of diverse voices, has frequently expressed admiration for Dorfman, illustrating the kind of solidarity that is vital for artists navigating public life.

Beyond individual friendships, Dorfman has received widespread praise and encouragement from prominent figures and allies. Gus Kenworthy, the Olympic freestyle skier and prominent LGBTQ+ advocate, notably lauded Dorfman as "stunning, talented, hilarious, and an all-around gem of a human." Such public endorsements from respected figures underscore the genuine respect and affection she commands within her community. This kind of affirmation is invaluable, especially for individuals who often face criticism or misunderstanding in the public eye.

Her active involvement in productions like "Becoming Eve," which intentionally features a significant number of LGBT performers and crew, further exemplifies her commitment to fostering inclusive and supportive environments within the entertainment industry. This dedication goes beyond mere representation; it's about actively creating spaces where queer talent can thrive, where authentic stories can be told by those who understand them most intimately. This focus on building community and ensuring representation is not just a personal preference for Dorfman; it's a defining aspect of her career, reflecting her belief that art can and should be a powerful force for social good and collective upliftment. Her work consistently champions the idea that when diverse voices are amplified, everyone benefits from a richer, more authentic cultural landscape.

Fan Perspectives: Engagement and Dialogue

Fan reactions to Tommy Dorfman's work and public persona are as varied and dynamic as her career itself, reflecting the broad spectrum of opinions and connections she inspires. On platforms like Reddit, discussions about her performances, particularly in "Romeo + Juliet" and "Becoming Eve," frequently highlight her versatility and unwavering commitment to her roles. Many fans express profound admiration for her ability to bring depth and nuance to complex characters, often praising her authenticity and the courage she exhibits in her personal and professional life. For instance, comments often celebrate her comedic timing as the Nurse or her poignant portrayal in "Becoming Eve," showcasing a deep appreciation for her artistic range.

However, like any artist pushing boundaries, there are also critical voices. In the case of "Romeo + Juliet," some audience members felt that the modern adaptations, while innovative, occasionally detracted from the original work's emotional core or Shakespearean integrity. These critiques often spark lively debates among fans, with some defending the artistic choices as necessary for contemporary relevance, while others argue for a more traditional approach. This ongoing dialogue on social media underscores the passionate engagement of her fanbase and the broader theater community.

Beyond specific roles, Dorfman's advocacy for transgender rights and visibility garners immense support from her followers. Many view her as a vital role model, celebrating her openness about her transition and her willingness to confront issues like misgendering. Her social media presence often becomes a forum for discussions about LGBTQ+ issues, identity, and acceptance, demonstrating her significant influence in shaping public discourse. Despite differing opinions on specific artistic choices, it is unequivocally clear that Tommy Dorfman's work consistently evokes strong reactions and sparks important conversations about representation, identity, and the evolving landscape of theater and entertainment. Her ability to inspire such engagement, both positive and critical, is a testament to her impact as an artist and a public figure.

Future Directions: A Path of Continued Impact

As Tommy Dorfman navigates the next chapter of her life, marked by both personal change and professional momentum, she is unequivocally poised to embrace new challenges and seize exciting opportunities. Her upcoming directorial debut with the film adaptation of "Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me" is a particularly anticipated project. This venture promises to showcase her creative vision and storytelling abilities from a new vantage point, allowing her to shape narratives from inception to screen. It represents a significant expansion of her artistic repertoire, demonstrating her ambition to contribute to the film industry not just as an actor, but as a formidable creative force.

Furthermore, her continued and prominent presence on Broadway suggests a sustained commitment to live theater, a medium where she has clearly found a powerful voice and deep connection with audiences. Her choice of roles, often exploring themes of identity, transformation, and resilience, indicates a deliberate path towards projects that are not only artistically fulfilling but also socially relevant. Coupled with her unwavering advocacy work for transgender rights and visibility, Dorfman's career trajectory points towards a long, impactful, and inspiring future. She is not merely an entertainer; she is a cultural catalyst, using her platform to foster understanding, challenge norms, and celebrate authenticity.

Tommy Dorfman's journey is a compelling testament to her remarkable resilience, undeniable talent, and profound commitment to authenticity. Despite navigating deeply personal setbacks, such as her recent divorce, and facing professional challenges inherent in public life, she continues to evolve, innovate, and inspire. Her contributions to the entertainment industry and her powerful voice in the ongoing dialogue about identity and representation are leaving an indelible mark, solidifying her legacy as a trailblazing artist who fearlessly embraces her truth and empowers others to do the same.

Rachel Zegler wishing Tommy Dorfman a happy birthday. Image from Reddit.

In conclusion, Tommy Dorfman's recent divorce from Elise Williams marks a significant personal turning point, yet her professional life continues to flourish with compelling Broadway roles and exciting upcoming directorial projects. Her journey exemplifies a profound commitment to her craft, a powerful dedication to advocacy, and an enduring spirit of authenticity, collectively cementing her status as a truly notable and influential figure in the entertainment industry and a leading voice for the LGBTQ+ community.

Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information from Reddit and other online sources as of May 27, 2025. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, information may be subject to change or further developments.