Daniel Radcliffe reveals rare public freedom after years of keeping low profile

Daniel Radcliffe says he usually tries to “lay low” in public, something he recently got a break from while starring in the Broadway production of "Every Brilliant Thing".

The 36-year-old actor recently opened up about the unusual experience of interacting directly with audiences during the emotional stage show.

Radcliffe explained that the element of audience participation during the play has allowed him to relax in ways he normally cannot as a globally recognised celebrity.

Speaking about the production, Radcliffe said he enjoys being able to openly introduce himself and engage with theatergoers instead of trying to stay unnoticed.

“There's something really liberating about just running around and being like, ‘Hey, I'm Dan. Nice to meet you,'” Radcliffe, 36, told People.

He admitted that in most public settings, especially crowded places, he usually keeps a very low profile by wearing hats and masks to avoid attention.

“Most of the time, if I'm in a room full of 1,000 people, I am hat on, mask on, trying to lay low,” he told the magazine.

However, the structure of "Every Brilliant Thing" has completely changed that experience for him.

During performances, Radcliffe moves throughout the audience and actively involves people in the storytelling, something he described as both “freeing” and fun.

“There's something really freeing and fun about just being able to run around and recruit people for the show.”

The play, written by Duncan Macmillan with Jonny Donahoe, focuses on audience interaction, making each performance slightly different from the last. The Broadway production is directed by Macmillan alongside Jeremy Herrin.

Radcliffe’s performance in the production has also earned major awards recognition. The actor recently received a 2026 Tony Award nomination for Best Leading Actor in a Play.

His run in "Every Brilliant Thing" is scheduled to end on May 24. After Radcliffe exits the production, Mariska Hargitay will take over the role from May 26, followed later by Tracee Ellis Ross on July 7.