'Glee': Take A Look At The Cast Then & Now

Lea Michele is an American actress and singer, renowned for her portrayal of "Rachel Berry" in the television series 'Glee'. "Rachel Berry" is a gifted and ambitious student who aspires to be a Broadway star. Throughout the series, "Rachel" grapples with her identity and strives to harmonize her aspirations with her personal connections. Despite occasional displays of stubbornness and self-centeredness, "Rachel" exhibits deep care and unwavering dedication towards her friends and loved ones. Lea Michele's portrayal of this character solidified her as one of the series' most iconic and unforgettable figures.

After 'Glee' ended, Michele starred in 'Scream Queens' in 2015 and landed a role in ABC's 'The Mayor' in 2017. She released her first album, 'Louder', in 2014 and her second album, 'Places', in 2017. In 2019, she released a Christmas album called 'Christmas in the City'. Michele announced her return to Broadway in July 2022, taking the role of "Fanny Brice: in 'Funny Girl' in September that year. She has also published two books, 'Brunette Ambition' and 'You First: Journal Your Way to Your Best Life'. Michele married Zandy Reich in March 2019. The couple welcomed their first child, son Ever, in August 2020. In September 2021, the Broadway veteran released 'Forever: A Lullaby Album', inspired by her son.

Matthew Morrison portrayed "Will Schuester", a Spanish teacher at William McKinley High School who also serves as the director of the New Directions choir club. Will is a dedicated character driven by his passion for his work, aiming to guide students toward their full potential in both music and life. Throughout the series, he confronts numerous personal and professional challenges, showcasing the complexities of his journey. Critics and audiences showered praise upon Matthew Morrison for his exceptional portrayal of this beloved character, establishing "Will Schuester" as one of the most cherished figures in the series.

After 'Glee' ended, Morrison landed a role in 'Finding Neverland' on Broadway until 2016. He also appeared in 'Younger', 'The Good Wife', 'Grey's Anatomy' and 'American Horror Story'. In 2020, he released his third album, 'Disney Dreamin'' with Matthew Morrison. The singer welcomed his first child with wife Renee Puente, Revel James Makai, in 2017. Three years later, their daughter, Phoenix Monroe, arrived. Morrison was announced as a judge on 'So You Think You Can Dance' in the spring of 2022. However, 'US Weekly' confirmed in May that Morrison abruptly left the judging panel less than a week after the start of season 17. The actor was fired from his new job as a judge over allegations of "inappropriate" behavior. In June 2022, Morrison denied allegations that he sent "flirtatious" text messages to a contestant, calling them "completely false statements. "Will Schuester" played by Matthew Morrison, is a Spanish teacher at William McKinley High School who is also the director of the choir club, the New Directions. Will is a dedicated character who is passionate about his work, and his goal is to help students reach their full potential both in music and in life. Throughout the series, Will has to face many challenges and difficulties, both personal and professional. Matthew Morrison's interpretation of this character was highly acclaimed by critics and audiences alike and made him one of the most beloved characters of the series.

"Sue Sylvester", played by Jane Lynch, is the coach of the Cheerios cheerleading squad and is known for being mean and sarcastic. "Sue" is a recurring antagonist in the series and is always trying to sabotage the glee club, the New Directions, and its director, "Will Schuester". Despite her obnoxious personality, "Sue" also has a more vulnerable side that is revealed throughout the series. Jane Lynch's portrayal of this character was highly acclaimed by critics and audiences alike and earned her numerous awards and nominations, including two Emmy Awards.

The actress, who already had an impressive resume before joining 'Glee', continued her acting career after the show ended. In 2013, she began hosting NBC's 'Hollywood Game Night,' which has earned her two Emmy Awards. She debuted a cabaret show, 'See Jane Sing', in 2015 and released a Christmas album, 'A Swingin' Little Christmas', the following year. She then landed a guest role on 'The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,' for which she won an Emmy. In 2020, she starred in season 1 of Netflix's 'Space Force'. The comedian starred in 'Hot White Heist', 'The Good Fight' and 'The Bystanders' in 2021.

"Kurt Hummel", played by Chris Colfer, is a member of the New Directions Glee Club and is known for his powerful voice and unique fashion style. "Kurt" is one of the most popular characters in the series due to his charismatic personality and his story of struggling for acceptance as a young gay man in a small conservative town. Chris Colfer's portrayal of this character was highly praised by critics and audiences alike and earned him numerous awards and nominations, including an Emmy Award.

After 'Glee,' Colfer has forged a successful writing career, penning numerous books for children and young adults, such as 'The Land of Stories' series and 'A Tale of Magic.' In addition to his literary achievements, he has made notable contributions as a producer and has graced the screens in various films and television shows.

Naya Rivera, an exceptionally gifted American actress, singer, and model, gained recognition for her remarkable portrayal of "Santana Lopez" in the television series 'Glee'. "Santana Lopez", a pivotal character in the series, encompasses the roles of both a Cheerio cheerleader and a member of the New Directions Glee Club. "Santana's" captivating presence stems from her witty sarcasm and exceptional talents in singing and dancing. Naya Rivera's exceptional portrayal of this character garnered immense praise from critics and viewers alike, leading to numerous accolades and nominations in recognition of her outstanding performance.

After her time on 'Glee', Rivera continued to make strides in her acting career, showcasing her talent in various television shows and movies such as 'Devious Maids' and 'Step Up: High Water'. Additionally, she collaborated with her former 'Glee' castmate, Big Sean, releasing a single titled 'Sorry'. Tragically, Rivera's life was cut short in July 2020 due to a boating accident. Her untimely passing left behind a legacy of a gifted actress and singer.