Overview and Role in Tick, Tick… Boom!
Phillipa Soo is an American actress and singer best known for her work in musical theater and film. She originated the role of Eliza Schuyler in the Broadway musical Hamilton and has built a sustained career in both stage and screen. Her profile is often linked to the 2021 musical film Tick, Tick… Boom!, in which she played Susan while also contributing to the film’s soundtrack. This article provides a verified overview of her background, key roles, major projects, and estimated net worth, drawing on authoritative sources.
Early Life and Education
Phillipa Soo was born on May 31, 1990, in Libertyville, Illinois, and grew up in a multiracial family. She attended St. Mary’s School and later Libertyville High School. She trained at the Stagedoor Manor summer camp and went on to study at the Juilliard School, where she graduated from the Drama Division in 2012. Her training and early stage experience in New York laid the foundation for her career in musical theater and film.
Broadway Breakthrough and Theater Work
Soo gained widespread recognition originating the role of Eliza Schuyler in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton on Broadway, a role she played from 2015 to 2017. Her performance received critical acclaim and contributed to the show’s cultural impact. Beyond Hamilton, she has appeared in productions such as The Secret Garden and The Civilians, and she has participated in readings and workshops for new musicals. These theater credits form a core part of her professional profile and influence her ongoing work in film and television.
Notable Theater Credits
- Eliza Schuyler in Hamilton (2015–2017)
- Susan in The Secret Garden (Encores! 2016)
- Corrine in The Civilians
Role in Tick, Tick… Boom!
In 2021, Phillipa Soo starred in the musical film Tick, Tick… Boom!, directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda and based on the musical by Jonathan Larson. She played Susan, the girlfriend of the protagonist Jon (played by Andrew Garfield), and performed several songs in the film, including "When You’re Home" and "So Far Outta Reach." Her involvement helped bring additional depth to the story and expanded her visibility beyond theater audiences. The film was released on Netflix and received positive reviews for its performances and emotional resonance.
Tick, Tick… Boom! Soundtrack and Performances
Soo contributed vocals to the Tick, Tick… Boom! soundtrack, with her performances supporting key narrative moments in the film. Her portrayal balanced emotional intimacy with the story’s themes of ambition and relationships. The soundtrack was nominated for Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media at the 2023 Grammy Awards, reflecting the collective strength of the film’s music.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year (Film) | 2021 | Official release and credits |
| Role | Susan | Film cast listing |
| Key Songs Performed | “When You’re Home,” “So Far Outta Reach” | Soundtrack credits |
| Grammy Nomination (Soundtrack) | Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media (2023) | Recording Academy |
Film and Television Work
In addition to Tick, Tick… Boom!, Soo has appeared in film and television projects. She had a recurring role in the Apple TV+ series Little Voice, where she played the character Mari. She has also participated in narrations for audio projects and performed in filmed stage productions, which have helped broaden her audience. These roles complement her theater background and demonstrate her versatility as a performer across mediums.
Screen Credits Snapshot
- Tick, Tick… Boom! (2021) — Susan
- Little Voice (2020–2021) — Mari (recurring)
- Hamilton (2020 film) — Eliza Schuyler
Activism and Public Engagement
Phillipa Soo is involved in advocacy related to Asian American representation and arts education. She has participated in panels and events that highlight diversity in storytelling and support emerging artists. She co-founded the organization East West Players, which focuses on Asian American theater and visibility, though this reflects her broader engagement rather than direct organizational founding. Her public speaking and community involvement reinforce her role as a working artist committed to meaningful impact.
Net Worth Estimate
As of 2023, Phillipa Soo’s estimated net worth ranges between $6 million and $8 million. This range reflects her accumulated income from Broadway performances, film roles, soundtrack royalties, and other professional endeavors. The following table summarizes key factors contributing to her financial standing:
| Metric | Estimate or Range | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Estimated Net Worth | $6 million – $8 million | Aggregated from career earnings |
| Primary Income Sources | Theater, film, music royalties | Performance and soundtrack sales |
| Notable Projects Affecting Value | Hamilton, Tick, Tick… Boom!, Little Voice | High-profile roles increasing visibility and earning potential |
Comparison with Peers
When compared with other performers who originated major roles in Hamilton and similar productions, Phillipa Soo’s net worth is competitive within the range of mid-tier Broadway-to-film transition artists. Her consistent work in high-profile productions and her contributions to a Grammy-nominated soundtrack support a stable and growing financial portfolio.
Legacy and Ongoing Projects
Phillipa Soo’s legacy is shaped by her breakthrough role in Hamilton, her emotionally resonant performance in Tick, Tick… Boom!, and her advocacy around representation and arts access. She continues to pursue new roles in film and television while remaining connected to the theater community. Current and future projects aim to further showcase her range and reinforce her position as a leading performer in both stage and screen industries.
Conclusion
Phillipa Soo has established a durable career through her work in musical theater and film. Her originating role in Hamilton, leading performance in Tick, Tick… Boom!, and involvement in meaningful advocacy highlight her multifaceted presence in entertainment. With an estimated net worth between $6 million and $8 million, she represents a successful model of transitioning from stage to screen while maintaining artistic integrity and continued growth.