Lea Michele

Lea Michele Sarfati was born in The Bronx, New York.{{cite web |url = http://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/lea-michele/bio/252097 |title = Lea Michele: Biography |website = TV Guide |access-date = December 10, 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20101129142022/http://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/lea-michele/bio/252097 |archive-date = November 29, 2010 |df = mdy-all }} She is the only child of Edith Thomasina (née Porcelli), a retired nurse, and Mark David Sarfati, a real estate agent and former delicatessen owner.{{cite web |last = Rohan |first = Virginia |url = http://www.northjersey.com/arts-and-entertainment/books/lea-michele-returning-to-bergen-for-book-signing-1.1018806?page=all |title = Lea Michele returns to Bergen County to sign her new book |website = NorthJersey.com |date = May 19, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160414220424/http://www.northjersey.com/arts-and-entertainment/books/lea-michele-returning-to-bergen-for-book-signing-1.1018806?page=all |archive-date = April 14, 2016 |df = mdy-all }} Her mother is an Italian American with ancestors from Rome and Naples, while her father is a Sephardic Jew with Judaeo-Spanish-speaking ancestors from Thessaloniki, Greece. Most of the Jews in Thessaloniki were killed during The Holocaust, including Michele's great-great-grandmother.{{Efn|Her paternal grandmother, Sylvia "Celia" (née Veissy), was born in New York. Sylvia's parents, Benouta "Bessie" (née Cohenka) and Morris Joseph Veissy, were born in Thessaloniki, Greece. (Who Do You Think You Are?, May 1, 2016)}}{{cite web |url = http://jewishstudies.washington.edu/sephardic-studies/sephardic-studies-professor-tv-series/ |title = UW Sephardic Studies Professor Featured in Emmy-Nominated TV Series |website = University of Washington |date = April 23, 2016 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160426034825/http://jewishstudies.washington.edu/sephardic-studies/sephardic-studies-professor-tv-series/ |archive-date = April 26, 2016 |df = mdy-all }} Michele was raised in her mother's Catholic faith, and has stated that her father "gladly" attended Mass with them. She spent the first four years of her life living in the Bronx, until she and her parents moved to the more suburban area of Tenafly, New Jersey. The family also rented an apartment in Manhattan, where they lived when Michele was performing on Broadway.{{cite web |last = Longsdorf |first = Amy |url = http://www.bergen.com/arts-and-music/featured/silver-screen-tenafly-s-lea-michele-makes-big-screen-debut-1.774086 |title = Silver Screen: Tenafly's Lea Michele makes big screen debut |website = Bergen.com |date = December 8, 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160415212018/http://www.bergen.com/arts-and-music/featured/silver-screen-tenafly-s-lea-michele-makes-big-screen-debut-1.774086 |archive-date = April 15, 2016 |df = mdy-all }} Michele was educated at Rockland Country Day School for elementary school in Congers, New York.{{cite web |url = http://www.radaronline.com/exclusives/2010/05/exclusive-glee-star-lea-micheles-childhood-photos |title = EXCLUSIVE: Glee Star Lea Michele's Childhood Photos |website = Radar Online |date = May 21, 2010 |access-date = March 3, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131221200439/http://radaronline.com/exclusives/2010/05/exclusive-glee-star-lea-micheles-childhood-photos/ |archive-date = December 21, 2013 |df = mdy-all }}

Michele started using her middle name at an early age. When she went on her first audition, for the role of Young Cosette in Les Misérables, she gave her name as Lea Michele, and has used it professionally ever since. Michele stated that she intentionally left off her surname because she was teased about its pronunciation.{{cite web |last = Cortez |first = Samantha |url = http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/lea-michele-change-bullied-school-article-1.988827 |title = Lea Michele: I had to change my last name because I was bullied in school |website = New York Daily News |date = December 9, 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160705040510/http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/lea-michele-change-bullied-school-article-1.988827 |archive-date = July 5, 2016 |df = mdy-all }} During the audition, she sang "Angel of Music" from The Phantom of the Opera – the only musical she knew at the time.{{cite news |last = McCann |first = Ruth |url = https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/09/04/AR2009090401615.html |title = An Interview With Lea Michele, One of the Leads in Fox's 'Glee' |newspaper = The Washington Post |date = September 6, 2009 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150104003132/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/09/04/AR2009090401615.html |archive-date = January 4, 2015 |df = mdy-all }} Michele went along to support a friend, but ended up landing the part herself.{{cite web |url = https://www.mtv.co.uk/news/7b8gn3/lea-michele-landed-role-by-luck |title = Lea Michele Landed Role by Luck |website = MTV |date = October 12, 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160611095750/http://www.mtv.co.uk/glee/news/lea-michele-landed-role-by-luck |archive-date = June 11, 2016 |df = mdy-all }} In 1997, Michele was homeschooled while living and working in Toronto, where she performed in a production of Ragtime.{{cite web|author-link1=Robert Simonson |last = Simonson |first = Robert |url = http://www.playbill.com/news/article/toronto-ragtime-extends-yet-again-69578 |title = Toronto Ragtime Extends Yet Again |website = Playbill |date = February 19, 1997 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160609192021/http://www.playbill.com/news/article/toronto-ragtime-extends-yet-again-69578 |archive-date = June 9, 2016 |df = mdy-all }} For her high school education, Michele attended Tenafly High School.{{cite web |last = Freydkin |first = Donna |url = https://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2010-05-10-LeaMichele10_CV_N.htm |title = Lea Michele never stopped believing |website = USA Today |date = May 10, 2010 |access-date = November 2, 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100920025503/http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2010-05-10-LeaMichele10_CV_N.htm |archive-date = September 20, 2010 |df = mdy-all }} During her time there, she was on the volleyball team, the debate team, and participated in choir.{{cite web |last = Goodman |first = Lizzy |url = http://www.elle.com/culture/celebrities/a12628/lea-michele-profile/ |title = Lea Michele Opens Up About Life After Cory |website = Elle |date = November 30, 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160713105715/http://www.elle.com/culture/celebrities/a12628/lea-michele-profile/ |archive-date = July 13, 2016 |df = mdy-all }} In her teens, when she was not working on the stage, Michele had a part-time job at a bat mitzvah dress shop.{{cite web |url = http://www.seventeen.com/entertainment/bios/lea-michele-wiw17#slide-3 |title = Up Close & Personal With Lea Michele |website = Seventeen |date = June 8, 2010 |access-date = May 10, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140421044842/http://www.seventeen.com/entertainment/bios/lea-michele-wiw17#slide-3 |archive-date = April 21, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} She also worked at her father's deli.{{cite web |url = http://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/lea-michele-25-things-you-dont-know-about-me--2014255 |title = Lea Michele: 25 Things You Don't Know About Me |website = Us Weekly |date = May 25, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160303234053/http://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/lea-michele-25-things-you-dont-know-about-me--2014255 |archive-date = March 3, 2016 |df = mdy-all }}

Michele refrained from auditioning for Broadway roles during her freshman, sophomore and junior years so she could focus on her education. In the summers of 2000, 2001, and 2002, Michele attended Stagedoor Manor, a performing arts training center in the Catskills.{{cite web |last = Bonanos |first = Christopher |url = http://www.nymag.com/arts/theater/features/67156/b |title = Jazz Hands, Everyone! |website = New York |date = July 11, 2010 |access-date = November 2, 2010 }}{{dead link|date=December 2017 |bot = InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted =yes }} At Stagedoor she was part of the touring troupe Our Time Cabaret, and performed in productions of Side by Side by Sondheim and The Who's Tommy.{{cite web |last = Peter |first = Thomas |url = http://www.playbill.com/features/article/162530-QA-with-Lea-Michele-Featured-in-Paperback-Edition-of-quotTheater-Geekquot |title = Q&A with Lea Michele, Featured in Paperback Edition of "Theater Geek" |website = Playbill |date = February 8, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140528005855/http://www.playbill.com/features/article/162530-QA-with-Lea-Michele-Featured-in-Paperback-Edition-of-quotTheater-Geekquot |archive-date = May 28, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} In her final summer at the camp, Michele was to perform in a production of Sweet Charity, but instead booked the role of Wendla Bergmann in a workshop of Spring Awakening, forcing her to drop out. She was later accepted to New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, but opted instead to continue working professionally on the stage.{{cite web |last = Gans |first = Andrew |url = http://www.playbill.com/celebritybuzz/article/103763-DIVA-TALK-Chatting-with-Spring-Awakenings-Lea-Michele-Plus-News-of-LuPone-Kritzer-and-Gravitte |title = DIVA TALK: Chatting with Spring Awakening's Lea Michele Plus News of LuPone, Kritzer and Gravitte |website = Playbill |date = November 4, 2006 |access-date = November 2, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110629152728/http://www.playbill.com/celebritybuzz/article/103763-DIVA-TALK-Chatting-with-Spring-Awakenings-Lea-Michele-Plus-News-of-LuPone-Kritzer-and-Gravitte |archive-date = June 29, 2011 |df = mdy-all }} When Michele was 19 years old, her mother Edith was diagnosed with uterine cancer. Edith received treatment from the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City.{{cite web |url = http://www.mskcc.org/multimedia/edith-sarfati-essay-till-sunday |title = Edith Sarfati's Essay "Till Sunday" |website = Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center |date = April 5, 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140513013158/http://www.mskcc.org/multimedia/edith-sarfati-essay-till-sunday |archive-date = May 13, 2014 |df = mdy-all }}

Michele made her Broadway debut in 1995, at the age of eight, as a replacement in the role of Young Cosette in Les Misérables.{{cite web |last = Waterman |first = Lauren |url = http://www.teenvogue.com/industry/blogs/entertainment/2009/10/lea-michele.html |title = High School Musical: Glee's Lea Michele |website = Teen Vogue |date = October 12, 2009 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120129134241/http://www.teenvogue.com/industry/blogs/entertainment/2009/10/lea-michele.html |archive-date = January 29, 2012 |df = mdy-all }} Michele was also the understudy for the role of Gavroche. This was followed by the role of the Little Girl in the 1998 original Broadway cast of Ragtime. Michele portrayed the part of the Little Girl for a year in the original Toronto cast, before the production was transferred to Broadway.{{cite web |last = Viagas |first = Robert |url = http://www.playbill.com/news/article/33890-Entire-Toronto-Ragtime-Cast-Headed-for-Bway |title = Entire Toronto 'Ragtime' Cast Headed for B'way |website = Playbill |date = May 8, 1997 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130524010451/http://www.playbill.com/news/article/33890-Entire-Toronto-Ragtime-Cast-Headed-for-Bway |archive-date = May 24, 2013 |df = mdy-all }} As a child, she voiced a main character, Christina, in the animated film Buster & Chauncey's Silent Night, released on October 13, 1998. In 2004, Michele began portraying Shprintze in the Broadway revival of the musical Fiddler on the Roof, and understudied the role of Chava.{{cite web |last = Jones |first = Kenneth |url = http://www.playbill.com/news/article/84589-Not-Your-Zaydes-Fiddler-on-the-Roof-Leveauxs-Fresh-Revival-Opens-on-Broadway-Feb-26 |title = Not Your Zayde's 'Fiddler on the Roof': Leveaux's Fresh Revival Opens on Broadway Feb. 26 |website = Playbill |date = February 26, 2004 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130523203724/http://www.playbill.com/news/article/84589-Not-Your-Zaydes-Fiddler-on-the-Roof-Leveauxs-Fresh-Revival-Opens-on-Broadway-Feb-26 |archive-date = May 23, 2013 |df = mdy-all }} She also performed on the cast recording of the show.{{cite web |url = http://www.allmusic.com/album/fiddler-on-the-roof-2004-broadway-revival-cast-r692135/credits/credits |title = Fiddler on the Roof [2004 Broadway Revival Cast]: Credits |website = AllMusic |access-date = November 9, 2011 }}

Michele next played the role of Wendla Bergmann in Steven Sater and Duncan Sheik's musical version of Spring Awakening, starring in early workshops and Off-Broadway performances, before finally originating the role in the 2006 Broadway production at the age of twenty. In February 2005, she performed as Wendla at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.{{cite web |url = http://www.untamedspirits.net/aj/regional_springawakening_2205.htm |title = Amazing Journey |website = Untamed Spirits |date = February 2, 2005 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121229052505/http://www.untamedspirits.net/aj/regional_springawakening_2205.htm |archive-date = December 29, 2012 |df = mdy-all }} Around the same time that Spring Awakening was set to go to Broadway, Michele was offered the role of Éponine Thénardier in the Broadway revival of Les Misérables.{{cite web |last = Gans |first = Andrew |url = http://www.playbill.com/celebritybuzz/article/120298.html-DIVA-TALK-Chatting-with-Spring-Awakening-Les-Mizs-Lea-Michele-Plus-News-of-Ebersole-Eder |archive-url = https://archive.today/20120909213708/http://www.playbill.com/celebritybuzz/article/120298.html-DIVA-TALK-Chatting-with-Spring-Awakening-Les-Mizs-Lea-Michele-Plus-News-of-Ebersole-Eder |url-status=dead |archive-date = September 9, 2012 |title = DIVA TALK: Chatting with Spring Awakening/Les Miz's Lea Michele Plus News of Ebersole, Eder |website = Playbill |date = August 8, 2008 }} She elected to remain with Spring Awakening, which premiered on Broadway in December 2006. For her performance, she was nominated for the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actress in a Musical. In January 2008, Michele starred in a concert production of the musical Alive in the World as Phoebe, aiding the Twin Towers Orphan Fund.{{cite web |url = http://www.playbill.com/article/errico-michele-pascal-and-reichard-are-alive-in-the-world-at-the-zipper-jan-13-com-146790 |title = Errico, Michele, Pascal and Reichard Are Alive in the World at the Zipper Jan. 13 |website = Playbill |first = Adam |last = Hetrick |date = January 13, 2008 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170116185550/http://www.playbill.com/article/errico-michele-pascal-and-reichard-are-alive-in-the-world-at-the-zipper-jan-13-com-146790 |archive-date = January 16, 2017 |df = mdy-all }}

In April 2008, she performed a Flops n' Cutz concert at Joe's Pub with her boyfriend at the time, stage actor Landon Beard.{{cite web |last = Gans |first = Andrew |url = http://www.playbill.com/news/article/115577-Cody-von-Essen-Michele-McCartney-Rapp-and-More-Set-for-Flopz-n-Cutz-4 |title = Cody, von Essen, Michele, McCartney, Rapp and More Set for Flopz n' Cutz |website = Playbill |date = March 4, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121022005544/http://www.playbill.com/news/article/115577-Cody-von-Essen-Michele-McCartney-Rapp-and-More-Set-for-Flopz-n-Cutz-4 |archive-date = October 22, 2012 |df = mdy-all }} She also debuted her solo cabaret Once Upon a Dream at Feinstein's at the Loews Regency. In May 2008, Michele left the Broadway cast of Spring Awakening with her co-star Jonathan Groff. She then performed as Claudia Octavia in a reading of Sheik and Sater's new musical, Nero, in July 2008 at Vassar College.{{cite web |last = Bacalzo |first = Dan |url = http://www.theatermania.com/content/news.cfm/story/13518 |title = Arden, Carlson, Menzel, Michele, Robbins, et al. Set for Sater and Sheik's Nero |website = Theater Mania |date = June 23, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081015120117/http://www.theatermania.com/content/news.cfm/story/13518 |archive-date = October 15, 2008 |df = mdy-all |access-date = December 16, 2008 }} In August 2008, she portrayed Éponine in the Hollywood Bowl's Les Misérables concert, which was directed by Richard Jay-Alexander.{{cite web |url = http://www.broadwayworld.com/article/Excitement-Cast-Bust-Out-for-Hollywood-Bowl-Les-Miserables-Concert-this-Summer-20080226 |title = Excitement as Cast Bust Out for Hollywood Bowl Les Misérables |website = Broadway World |date = February 26, 2008 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131220065905/http://www.broadwayworld.com/article/Excitement-Cast-Bust-Out-for-Hollywood-Bowl-Les-Miserables-Concert-this-Summer-20080226 |archive-date = December 20, 2013 |df = mdy-all }} She starred alongside Brian Stokes Mitchell as Javert and John Lloyd Young as Marius Pontmercy, each of whom went on to guest star on Glee.{{cite web |last = Gans |first = Andrew |url = http://www.playbill.com/news/article/120207-A-World-About-to-Dawn-Les-Misrables-Arrives-at-the-Hollywood-Bowl-Aug-8 |title = A World About to Dawn: 'Les Misérables' Arrives at the Hollywood Bowl Aug. 8 |website = Playbill |date = August 8, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120727064605/http://www.playbill.com/news/article/120207-A-World-About-to-Dawn-Les-Misrables-Arrives-at-the-Hollywood-Bowl-Aug-8 |archive-date = July 27, 2012 |df = mdy-all }} While in Los Angeles for the Les Misérables concerts, she sang at the Upright Cabaret at Mark's Restaurant in Hollywood in August 2008.{{cite web |url = http://www.broadwayworld.com/article/BWW-TV-Exclusive-Lea-Michele-Talks-About-Her-LA-Upright-Cabaret-Debut-20080811 |title = BWW TV Exclusive: Lea Michele Talks About Her LA Upright Cabaret Debut |website = Broadway World |date = August 11, 2008 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140317230338/http://www.broadwayworld.com/article/BWW-TV-Exclusive-Lea-Michele-Talks-About-Her-LA-Upright-Cabaret-Debut-20080811 |archive-date = March 17, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} The next month, she performed at the benefit Broadway Chance Style: Up Close & Personal along with stars such as Laura Bell Bundy, Eden Espinosa and Kristoffer Cusick.{{cite web |last = Gans |first = Andrew |url = http://www.playbill.com/news/article/121767-Broadway-Chance-Style-Benefit-with-Bundy-Michele-Espinosa-Cusick-Presented-Sept-27 |title = Broadway Chance Style Benefit, with Bundy, Michele, Espinosa, Cusick, Presented Sept. 27 |website = Playbill |date = September 27, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121022005608/http://www.playbill.com/news/article/121767-Broadway-Chance-Style-Benefit-with-Bundy-Michele-Espinosa-Cusick-Presented-Sept-27 |archive-date = October 22, 2012 |df = mdy-all }}

File:Lea Michele 2009.jpg, May 11, 2009]]

{{further|Glee (TV series)}}

{{seealso|Glee albums discography|Glee songs discography|List of songs in Glee}}

From 2009 until its ending in 2015, Michele starred in the Fox musical comedy-drama series Glee as Rachel Berry, the show's female lead and star singer.{{cite web |last = Andreeva |first = Nellie |url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/foxs-glee-casts-broadway-pair-118615 |title = Fox's 'Glee' casts Broadway pair |website = The Hollywood Reporter |date = September 4, 2008 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160308020821/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/foxs-glee-casts-broadway-pair-118615 |archive-date = March 8, 2016 |df = mdy-all }} The role was written specifically for Michele by co-creator Ryan Murphy.{{cite news |last = Kuhn |first = Sarah |url = http://www.backstage.com/bso/news-and-features-features/life-stages-1004009175.story |title = Life Stages |website = Backstage |date = September 3, 2009 |access-date = September 5, 2009 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090905231849/http://www.backstage.com/bso/news-and-features-features/life-stages-1004009175.story |archive-date = September 5, 2009 |df = mdy-all }} Michele won a number of awards for portraying Rachel, including the 2009 Satellite Award for Best Actress – Television Series Musical or Comedy.{{cite web |url = http://www.pressacademy.com/satawards/awards2009.shtml |title = 2009 14th Annual Satellite Awards Nominations |website = International Press Academy |access-date = December 17, 2009 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20091202232928/http://www.pressacademy.com/satawards/awards2009.shtml |archive-date = December 2, 2009 }} She was also nominated for the 2009 Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Television Series Musical or Comedy,{{cite web |url = http://www.goldenglobes.org/blog/2009/12/the-67th-annual-golden-globe-awardsnominations/ |title = The 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards Nominations |website = GoldenGlobes.org |date = December 15, 2009 |access-date = February 15, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110221034149/http://www.goldenglobes.org/blog/2009/12/the-67th-annual-golden-globe-awardsnominations/ |archive-date = February 21, 2011 }} and the 2010 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series.{{cite web |last = Leopold |first = Todd |url = http://edition.cnn.com/2010/SHOWBIZ/TV/07/08/emmy.nominations/ |title = Emmy nominations smile on 'Glee' |website = CNN |access-date = July 8, 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100711193024/http://edition.cnn.com/2010/SHOWBIZ/TV/07/08/emmy.nominations/ |archive-date = July 11, 2010 |df = mdy-all }}

Michele was included on Time{{'s}} list of the 100 Most Influential People In the World for 2010.{{cite magazine |first = Olivia |last = Newton-John |url = http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,1984685_1984940_1985535,00.html/ |title = Lea Michele – The 2010 TIME 100 |magazine = Time |date = April 29, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110528051442/http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,1984685_1984940_1985535,00.html |archive-date = May 28, 2011 |df = mdy-all }} In December 2010, she received Billboard{{'s}} first-ever Triple Threat Award.{{cite magazine |last = Lipshutz |first = Jason |url = http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/950804/lea-michele-to-receive-billboards-first-ever-triple-threat-award-at-women-in |title = Lea Michele to Receive Billboard's First-Ever Triple Threat Award At Women in Music |magazine = Billboard |date = November 17, 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160803115228/http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/950804/lea-michele-to-receive-billboards-first-ever-triple-threat-award-at-women-in |archive-date = August 3, 2016 |df = mdy-all }} Several songs performed by Michele on the show were released as singles available for digital download.{{cite web |last = Linder |first = Brian |url = http://uk.music.ign.com/articles/104/1041554p1.html |title = Glee: The Music – Vol. 1 Review |website = IGN |date = November 4, 2009 |access-date = December 5, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110119062807/http://uk.music.ign.com/articles/104/1041554p1.html |archive-date = January 19, 2011 }}{{cite web |last = Linder |first = Brian |url = http://www.music.ign.com/articles/105/1053108p1.html |title = Glee: The Music, Vol. 2 Review |website = IGN |date = December 8, 2009 |access-date = December 9, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20101215231756/http://music.ign.com/articles/105/1053108p1.html |archive-date = December 15, 2010 |df = mdy-all }} Her cover of The All-American Rejects' song "Gives You Hell" reached the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100.{{cite web |first = Daniel |last = Kilkelley |url = http://www.digitalspy.com/music/news/a216180/glee-cover-takes-top-spot-in-ireland.html |title = 'Glee' cover takes top spot in Ireland |website = Digital Spy |date = April 29, 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110710125535/http://www.digitalspy.com/music/news/a216180/glee-cover-takes-top-spot-in-ireland.html |archive-date = July 10, 2011 |df = mdy-all }} Michele was featured as lead singer for 14 of the top 20 best-selling Glee cast songs as of 2010.{{cite web |first = Kathy |last = Henderson |url = http://www.broadway.com/buzz/150414/whats-up-lea-michele-all-about-glee-newfound-fame-and-sigh-jonathan-groff |title = What's Up, Lea Michele? All About Glee, Newfound Fame and (Sigh!) Jonathan Groff |website = Broadway.com |date = April 13, 2010 |access-date = May 17, 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110102173023/http://www.broadway.com/buzz/150414/whats-up-lea-michele-all-about-glee-newfound-fame-and-sigh-jonathan-groff/ |archive-date = January 2, 2011 |df = mdy-all }} In 2011, she was nominated for two Grammy Awards, for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals ("Don't Stop Believin'") and Best Compilation Soundtrack Album (Glee: The Music, Volume 1).{{cite web |first = Jocelyn |last = Vena |url = http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1653441/glee-star-lea-michele-celebrates-grammy-nominations.jhtml |title = 'Glee' Star Lea Michele Celebrates Two Grammy Nominations |website = MTV |date = December 2, 2010 |access-date = February 15, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110629151051/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1653441/glee-star-lea-michele-celebrates-grammy-nominations.jhtml |archive-date = June 29, 2011 |df = mdy-all }} That same year, Michele was nominated again for the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Television Series Musical or Comedy.{{cite web |url = http://www.goldenglobes.org/blog/2010/12/the-68th-annual-golden-globe-awards-nominations/ |title = The 68th Annual Golden Globe Awards Nominations |website = GoldenGlobes.org |date = December 14, 2011 |access-date = February 15, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110103061520/http://www.goldenglobes.org/blog/2010/12/the-68th-annual-golden-globe-awards-nominations/ |archive-date = January 3, 2011 }} In 2012 and 2013, she won the People's Choice Award for Favorite TV Comedy Actress.{{cite web |url = http://www.peopleschoice.com/pca/awards/nominees/ |title = People's Choice Awards 2012 Nominees |website = People's Choice Awards |access-date = January 29, 2012 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150107003655/http://www.peopleschoice.com/pca/awards/nominees/ |archive-date = January 7, 2015 |df = mdy-all }}

In May 2010, Michele and the cast of Glee embarked on a music tour of the United States, playing 10 shows in Phoenix, Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York City.{{cite web |last = Masley |first = Ed |url = https://www.usatoday.com/life/music/reviews/2010-05-16-gleeonline17_N.htm |title = 'Glee' fans keep the faith as tour kicks off |website = USA Today |date = May 16, 2010 |access-date = May 16, 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110131165510/http://www.usatoday.com/life/music/reviews/2010-05-16-gleeonline17_N.htm |archive-date = January 31, 2011 |df = mdy-all }} The final show of 2010 was at Radio City Music Hall. Jonathan Groff, who played Michele's love interest Jesse St. James on the show, performed with her at the Los Angeles and New York City shows.{{cite web |url = http://www.broadway.com/buzz/152486/in-glees-la-concert-lea-michele-says-hello-to-jonathan-groff/ |title = In Glee's L.A. Concert, Lea Michele Says "Hello" to Jonathan Groff |website = Broadway.com |date = May 24, 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100526014302/http://www.broadway.com/buzz/152486/in-glees-la-concert-lea-michele-says-hello-to-jonathan-groff/ |archive-date = May 26, 2010 |df = mdy-all }} Glee Live! In Concert! then expanded a year later to include 22 shows across North America and 9 shows in England and Ireland.{{cite web |last = Palmer |first = Alun |url = https://www.mirror.co.uk/lifestyle/going-out/theatre/glee-live-tour-storms-the-uk-136977 |title = Glee live tour storms the UK |website = Daily Mirror |date = June 24, 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170803005308/http://www.mirror.co.uk/lifestyle/going-out/theatre/glee-live-tour-storms-the-uk-136977 |archive-date = August 3, 2017 |df = mdy-all }} The cast acted in character for the concerts, which were met with positive reviews.{{cite web |last = Curran |first = Aimee |url = http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1639735/20100521/story.jhtml |title = 'Glee' Cast Brings More Than Mere Covers To L.A. Tour Stop |website = MTV |date = May 21, 2010 |access-date = May 23, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100524055915/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1639735/20100521/story.jhtml |archive-date = May 24, 2010 |df = mdy-all }}{{cite web |last = Nguyen |first = Hahn |url = http://screenertv.com/news-features/glee-live-high-and-low-notes-bad-romance-brittany-and-barf-bags/ |title = 'Glee: Live' high and low notes: 'Bad Romance,' Brittany and barf bags |website = Screener |date = May 21, 2010 |access-date = May 23, 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170118230037/http://screenertv.com/news-features/glee-live-high-and-low-notes-bad-romance-brittany-and-barf-bags/ |archive-date = January 18, 2017 |df = mdy-all }}

In October 2010, Michele and co-star Matthew Morrison performed as Janet Weiss and Brad Majors, respectively, in the 35th anniversary benefit concert of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. The event benefited The Painted Turtle and also starred Jack Nicholson and Danny DeVito.{{cite web |last = Benigno |first = Anthony |url = http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/2010/10/29/2010-10-29_jack_nicholson_nicole_scherzinger_and_glees_lea_michele_headline_rocky_horror_tr.html |title = Halloween gets the star treatment: Lea Michele, Jack Nicholson headline 'Rocky Horror' tribute show |website = New York Daily News |date = October 29, 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20101101051134/http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/2010/10/29/2010-10-29_jack_nicholson_nicole_scherzinger_and_glees_lea_michele_headline_rocky_horror_tr.html |archive-date = November 1, 2010 |df = mdy-all }} In February 2011, Michele performed at The Grammys' MusiCares Person of the Year event in Los Angeles, honoring Barbra Streisand. She sang "My Man" from the Streisand film Funny Girl.{{cite magazine |url = https://www.rollingstone.com/music/pictures/2011-musicares-person-of-the-year-tribute-to-barbra-streisand-20110212/lea-michelle-0373599 |title = 2011 MusiCares Person of the Year Tribute to Barbra Streisand Pictures – Lea Michele |magazine = Rolling Stone |date = February 11, 2011 |access-date = March 3, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140321132649/http://www.rollingstone.com/music/pictures/2011-musicares-person-of-the-year-tribute-to-barbra-streisand-20110212/lea-michelle-0373599 |archive-date = March 21, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} Before the Super Bowl XLV on February 6, 2011, Michele performed "America the Beautiful" with the United States Air Force Tops In Blue.{{cite web |last = Paskin |first = Willa |url = http://nymag.com/daily/entertainment/2011/01/lea_michele_to_sing_at_super_b.html |title = Lea Michele to Sing at Super Bowl |website = New York |date = January 16, 2014 |access-date = March 3, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110203103039/http://nymag.com/daily/entertainment/2011/01/lea_michele_to_sing_at_super_b.html |archive-date = February 3, 2011 |df = mdy-all }} She then starred in Garry Marshall's romantic comedy film New Year's Eve portraying Elise, a back-up singer and the love interest of Ashton Kutcher's character.{{cite web |last = McNary |first = Dave |url = https://variety.com/2010/film/news/lea-michele-s-countdown-to-new-year-s-1118026199/ |title = Lea Michele's countdown to 'New Year's' |website = Variety |date = October 22, 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180125015826/https://variety.com/2010/film/news/lea-michele-s-countdown-to-new-year-s-1118026199/ |archive-date = January 25, 2018 |df = mdy-all }} The film was released worldwide on December 9, 2011.

File:Lea Michele Comic Con by Gage Skidmore.jpg in 2015]]

{{further|Louder (Lea Michele album)|Scream Queens (2015 TV series)}}

On September 18, 2012, it was announced that Michele would work on her first solo album.{{cite web |last = Vena |first = Jocelyn |url = http://www.mtv.com/news/1694081/glee-lea-michele-debut-album/ |title = 'Glee' Star Lea Michele Preps Debut Album |website = MTV |date = September 19, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141122020920/http://www.mtv.com/news/1694081/glee-lea-michele-debut-album/ |archive-date = November 22, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} She began recordings for the album soon after on October 19, 2012.{{cite web |last = Gicas |first = Peter |url = http://www.eonline.com/news/356442/lea-michele-tweets-excitement-about-starting-work-on-her-debut-solo-album |title = Lea Michele Tweets Excitement About Starting Work on Her Debut Solo Album |website = E! Online |date = October 23, 2012 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150924045109/http://www.eonline.com/news/356442/lea-michele-tweets-excitement-about-starting-work-on-her-debut-solo-album |archive-date = September 24, 2015 |df = mdy-all }} Michele stated that it was a "pretty slow process" and the album would be more "pop/rock driven" rather than Broadway influenced.{{cite web |last = Bustos |first = Kristina |url = http://www.digitalspy.com/music/news/a409237/glee-star-lea-michele-working-on-debut-album.html |title = 'Glee' star Lea Michele 'working on debut album' |website = Digital Spy |date = October 2, 2012 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121117024336/http://www.digitalspy.com/music/news/a409237/glee-star-lea-michele-working-on-debut-album.html |archive-date = November 17, 2012 |df = mdy-all }} On November 27, 2013, it was announced that the first single from her debut album Louder would be "Cannonball", which was released on December 10, 2013.{{cite magazine |last = Ng |first = Philiana |url = http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/5800903/lea-micheles-cannonball-to-be-first-single-from-debut-album |title = Lea Michele's 'Cannonball' to Be First Single From Debut Album |magazine = Billboard |date = November 27, 2013 |access-date = December 5, 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131201014825/http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/5800903/lea-micheles-cannonball-to-be-first-single-from-debut-album |archive-date = December 1, 2013 |df = mdy-all }} "Cannonball" debuted at number 75 on the Billboard Hot 100, making her the first main Glee cast member to chart as a lead soloist.{{cite magazine |last = Trust |first = Gary |url = http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/5840334/eminem-rihanna-remain-atop-hot-100-with-the-monster |title = Eminem, Rihanna Remain Atop Hot 100 With 'The Monster' |magazine = Billboard |date = December 18, 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131219114520/http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/5840334/eminem-rihanna-remain-atop-hot-100-with-the-monster |archive-date = December 19, 2013 |df = mdy-all }} The single sold over 51,000 copies in its first week of sale.{{cite web |url = http://www.wetpaint.com/lea-michele/articles/2013-12-22-lea-michele-cannonball-billboard-chart |title = Lea Michele's "Cannonball" Is First Song From Any Glee Star to Make Billboard Chart – Where Did It Land? |website = Wetpaint.com |date = December 23, 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141027053415/http://www.wetpaint.com/lea-michele/articles/2013-12-22-lea-michele-cannonball-billboard-chart |archive-date = October 27, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} The music video was released on January 9, 2014.{{cite web |last = Malec |first = Brett |url = http://www.eonline.com/news/497806/lea-michele-debuts-cannonball-music-video-watch-now |title = Lea Michele Debuts "Cannonball" Music Video – Watch Now! |website = E! Online |date = January 10, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150924112341/http://www.eonline.com/news/497806/lea-michele-debuts-cannonball-music-video-watch-now |archive-date = September 24, 2015 |df = mdy-all }} Michele subsequently released four promotional singles in the lead-up to the album: "Battlefield",{{cite web |last = Nessif |first = Bruna |url = http://www.eonline.com/news/494373/lea-michele-releases-new-single-battlefield-take-a-listen |title = Lea Michele Releases New Single "Battlefield" – Take a Listen! |website = E! Online |date = December 27, 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160330220045/http://www.eonline.com/news/494373/lea-michele-releases-new-single-battlefield-take-a-listen |archive-date = March 30, 2016 |df = mdy-all }} "Louder",{{cite magazine |last = Lipshutz |first = Jason |url = http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/pop-shop/5869559/lea-michele-exclusive-song-premiere-listen-to-louder-title-track |title = Lea Michele Exclusive Song Premiere: Listen To 'Louder' Title Track |magazine = Billboard |date = January 13, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140705023849/http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/pop-shop/5869559/lea-michele-exclusive-song-premiere-listen-to-louder-title-track |archive-date = July 5, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} "What Is Love?",{{cite web |last = Sperry |first = April |url = http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/01/27/lea-michele-what-is-love_n_4675926.html |title = Lea Michele Releases New Single, 'What Is Love' |website = The Huffington Post |access-date = February 23, 2014 |date = January 27, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140203074658/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/01/27/lea-michele-what-is-love_n_4675926.html |archive-date = February 3, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} and "You're Mine".{{cite web |last = Bucksbaum |first = Sydney |url = http://www.zap2it.com/blogs/lea_michele_releases_cory_monteith_tribute_song_youre_mine_listen-2014-02 |title = Lea Michele releases Cory Monteith tribute song 'You're Mine': Listen |website = Zap2it |date = February 10, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140530002653/http://www.zap2it.com/blogs/lea_michele_releases_cory_monteith_tribute_song_youre_mine_listen-2014-02 |archive-date = May 30, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} Louder was released on February 28, 2014, and debuted on the Billboard 200 at number four, selling over 62,000 copies in its first week.{{cite magazine |last = Caulfield |first = Keith |url = http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/5930454/rick-ross-rules-with-fifth-no-1-album-on-billboard-200 |title = Rick Ross Rules With Fifth No. 1 Album On Billboard 200 |magazine = Billboard |date = March 12, 2014 |access-date = March 17, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140314115742/http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/5930454/rick-ross-rules-with-fifth-no-1-album-on-billboard-200 |archive-date = March 14, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} The second single from the album, "On My Way", was released on May 4, 2014,{{cite web |last = Lewis |first = Casey |url = http://www.teenvogue.com/entertainment/music/2014-02/lea-michele-on-my-way |title = Listen to This Great New Lea Michele Song (Plus, Stream the Whole Album!) |website = Teen Vogue |date = February 25, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140408215113/http://www.teenvogue.com/entertainment/music/2014-02/lea-michele-on-my-way |archive-date = April 8, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} with the music video premiering on May 19, 2014.{{cite web |last = Malach |first = Maggie |url = http://www.popcrush.com/lea-michele-on-my-way-video/ |title = Lea Michele Smoulders in 'On My Way' Video |website = PopCrush.com |date = May 19, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160303195302/http://popcrush.com/lea-michele-on-my-way-video/ |archive-date = March 3, 2016 |df = mdy-all }}

Michele next voiced the lead role of Dorothy Gale in the animated musical film Legends of Oz: Dorothy's Return,{{cite web |last = McNary |first = Dave |url = https://variety.com/2010/digital/features/lea-michele-heads-to-oz-1118020492/ |title = Lea Michele heads to 'Oz' |website = Variety |date = June 11, 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170709231833/http://variety.com/2010/digital/features/lea-michele-heads-to-oz-1118020492/ |archive-date = July 9, 2017 |df = mdy-all }} which opened in North American theaters on May 9, 2014. In May 2013, it was announced that Michele had signed a deal with Harmony Books and Random House to pen a part memoir, part how-to book titled Brunette Ambition.{{cite web |last = Goldberg |first = Lesley |url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/glees-lea-michele-write-her-553449 |title = Lea Michele to Write Her First Book |website = The Hollywood Reporter |date = May 23, 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131217183106/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/glees-lea-michele-write-her-553449 |archive-date = December 17, 2013 |df = mdy-all }} The book was released on May 20, 2014.{{cite web |url = http://www.accesshollywood.com/lea-michele-memoir-brunette-ambition-scheduled-for-2014-release_article_79879 |title = Lea Michele Memoir Brunette Ambition Scheduled For 2014 Release |website = Access Hollywood |date = May 23, 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150724124758/http://www.accesshollywood.com/lea-michele-memoir-brunette-ambition-scheduled-for-2014-release_article_79879 |archive-date = July 24, 2015 |df = mdy-all }} Michele had multiple book signings in the United States, including a signing and Q&A event hosted by Jonathan Groff.{{cite web |last = Champion |first = Lindsay |url = http://www.broadway.com/buzz/176050/spring-awakening-reunion-jonathan-groff-joins-bff-lea-michele-at-her-brunette-ambition-book-signing/ |title = Spring Awakening Reunion! Jonathan Groff Joins BFF Lea Michele at Her Brunette Ambition Book Signing |website = Broadway.com |date = May 22, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140524005753/http://www.broadway.com/buzz/176050/spring-awakening-reunion-jonathan-groff-joins-bff-lea-michele-at-her-brunette-ambition-book-signing/ |archive-date = May 24, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} The book debuted at number nine on the U.S. Nonfiction Best Seller list a week after it was released,{{cite web |url = https://www.reuters.com/article/books-bestsellers-idUSL1N0OF1C220140529 |title = Emily Giffin topples James Patterson from top of best-sellers list |website = Reuters |date = May 29, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151125035322/http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/05/29/books-bestsellers-idUSL1N0OF1C220140529 |archive-date = November 25, 2015 |df = mdy-all }} and made its debut on The New York Times Best Seller list at number three.{{cite news |url = https://www.nytimes.com/best-sellers-books/2014-06-08/advice-how-to-and-miscellaneous/list.html |title = Best Sellers – The New York Times |website = The New York Times |date = June 8, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160306162354/http://www.nytimes.com/best-sellers-books/2014-06-08/advice-how-to-and-miscellaneous/list.html |archive-date = March 6, 2016 |df = mdy-all }} Michele released a second book, You First: Journal Your Way to Your Best Life, on September 22, 2015, which was also published by Random House.{{cite web |url = http://www.instyle.com/news/lea-michele-book-you-first-excerpt |title = Lea Michele's New Book Tells You How to Reach Your Life Goals – Read an Excerpt |website = InStyle |date = September 22, 2015 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160305124734/http://www.instyle.com/news/lea-michele-book-you-first-excerpt |archive-date = March 5, 2016 |df = mdy-all |access-date = February 16, 2016 }}

In July 2014, it was announced that Michele would guest star in the final season of FX's drama series Sons of Anarchy, playing the role of Gertie, a truck stop waitress who connects with Gemma Teller Morrow (Katey Sagal).{{cite web |last = Weinstein |first = Shelli |url = https://variety.com/2014/tv/news/lea-michele-books-sons-of-anarchy-role-1201270283/ |title = Lea Michele Books 'Sons of Anarchy' Role |website = Variety |date = July 28, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170622080554/http://variety.com/2014/tv/news/lea-michele-books-sons-of-anarchy-role-1201270283/ |archive-date = June 22, 2017 |df = mdy-all }} Michele's episode, "Smoke 'em If You Got 'em", aired on October 14, 2014.{{cite web |last = Goldberg |first = Lesley |url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/glees-lea-michele-rides-fxs-721601?mobile_redirect=false |title = Lea Michele Rides to FX's 'Sons of Anarchy' |website = The Hollywood Reporter |date = July 28, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141127223844/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/glees-lea-michele-rides-fxs-721601?mobile_redirect=false |archive-date = November 27, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} From 2015 to 2016, Michele starred in the Fox horror-comedy series Scream Queens, alongside original scream queen Jamie Lee Curtis, portraying the quirky, neck brace-wearing Hester Ulrich.{{cite web |last = Goldberg |first = Lesley |url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/lea-michele-joe-manganiello-more-764537 |title = Lea Michele, Joe Manganiello, More Join Ryan Murphy's 'Scream Queens' |website = The Hollywood Reporter |date = January 17, 2015 |access-date = January 18, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150120043822/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/lea-michele-joe-manganiello-more-764537 |archive-date = January 20, 2015 |df = mdy-all }} She was nominated for the People's Choice Award for Favorite Actress in a New TV Series,{{cite web |url = http://www.peopleschoice.com/pca/awards/nominees/index.jsp?year=2016 |title = 2016 Nominees & Winners |website = People's Choice Awards |access-date = January 21, 2016 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151117020727/http://www.peopleschoice.com/pca/awards/nominees/index.jsp?year=2016 |archive-date = November 17, 2015 |df = mdy-all }} and two Teen Choice Awards for Choice TV Actress: Comedy and Choice TV: Villain for her performance in the role.{{cite web |last = Vulpo |first = Mike |url = http://www.eonline.com/ca/news/767643/teen-choice-awards-2016-nominations-announced-see-the-first-wave-of-potential-winners |title = Teen Choice Awards 2016 Nominations Announced: See the "First Wave" of Potential Winners |website = E! Online |date = May 24, 2016 |access-date = June 17, 2016 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160628204021/http://www.eonline.com/ca/news/767643/teen-choice-awards-2016-nominations-announced-see-the-first-wave-of-potential-winners |archive-date = June 28, 2016 |df = mdy-all }}{{cite web |last = Eliahou |first = Maya |url = http://www.eonline.com/news/771305/teen-choice-awards-2016-captain-america-civil-war-leads-second-wave-of-nominations |title = Teen Choice Awards 2016 – Captain America: Civil War Leads Second Wave of Nominations |website = E! Online |date = June 9, 2016 |access-date = June 18, 2016 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170128212039/http://www.eonline.com/news/771305/teen-choice-awards-2016-captain-america-civil-war-leads-second-wave-of-nominations |archive-date = January 28, 2017 |df = mdy-all }} On March 15, 2016, the charity single "This Is for My Girls", on which Michele was one of eight featured singers, was released as a charity single. The song, written by Diane Warren, benefited the White House's #62MillionGirls campaign and the Obama administration's Let Girls Learn initiative, set up by the First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama.{{cite magazine |last = Platon |first = Adelle |url = http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/hip-hop/7262672/michelle-obama-this-is-for-my-girls-missy-elliott-zendaya-kelly-rowland-janelle-monae |title = Michelle Obama Taps Missy Elliott, Zendaya, Kelly Rowland, Kelly Clarkson, Janelle Monae & More on 'This Is for My Girls' |magazine = Billboard |date = March 15, 2016 |access-date = March 16, 2016 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160316081200/http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/hip-hop/7262672/michelle-obama-this-is-for-my-girls-missy-elliott-zendaya-kelly-rowland-janelle-monae |archive-date = March 16, 2016 |df = mdy-all }}

File:Lea Michele Grammys 2017.png in 2017]]

Michele began recording for her second studio album in April 2015.{{cite web |last = Wass |first = Mike |url = http://www.idolator.com/7589124/lea-michele-second-album-new-studio-pics |title = Rejoice! Lea Michele Has Started Recording Her Second Album |website = Idolator |date = April 15, 2015 |df = mdy-all }} She stated that the album would be less pop-influenced than her debut, and would "[go] back to [her] roots" with a more theatrical sound.{{cite web |last = Smith |first = Briony |url = http://www.flare.com/celebrity/cover-stars/october-cover-star-lea-michele-wants-to-fix-your-life/ |title = October Cover Star Lea Michele Wants to Fix Your Life |website = Flare |date = August 27, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160325231233/http://www.flare.com/celebrity/cover-stars/october-cover-star-lea-michele-wants-to-fix-your-life/ |archive-date = March 25, 2016 |df = mdy-all }} In January 2017, Michele played three shows on a mini tour titled An Intimate Evening with Lea Michele, to support her second studio album, Places.{{cite web |last = Wass |first = Mike |url = http://www.idolator.com/7655234/lea-michele-new-album-2017-intimate-evening-tour |title = Lea Michele Will Preview Her Sophomore LP With A Mini Tour |website = Idolator |date = January 11, 2017 |df = mdy-all }} The tour continued with additional shows in the UK and North America in April and May 2017.{{cite web |last = Viagas |first = Robert |url = http://www.playbill.com/article/lea-michele-adds-boston-seattle-and-other-cities-to-places-album-tour |title = Lea Michele Adds Boston, Seattle, and Other Cities to Places Album Tour |website = Playbill |date = March 6, 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170317233901/http://www.playbill.com/article/lea-michele-adds-boston-seattle-and-other-cities-to-places-album-tour |archive-date = March 17, 2017 |df = mdy-all }} The lead single from the second album, "Love Is Alive", was released on March 3, 2017.{{cite web |last = Chiu |first = Melody |url = http://people.com/music/lea-michele-love-is-alive-new-single-places/ |title = Lea Michele's New Single 'Love Is Alive' Off Her Upcoming Album Places |website = People |date = March 1, 2017 |access-date = March 1, 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170302030853/http://people.com/music/lea-michele-love-is-alive-new-single-places/ |archive-date = March 2, 2017 |df = mdy-all }} Three promotional singles were subsequently released in the lead-up to the album: "Anything's Possible",{{cite magazine |last = Brandle |first = Lars |url = http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/7721005/lea-michele-places-new-song-anythings-possible |title = Lea Michele Reveals Release Date for 'Places,' Shares New Song 'Anything's Possible': Listen |magazine = Billboard |date = March 14, 2017 |access-date = March 15, 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170315181827/http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/7721005/lea-michele-places-new-song-anythings-possible |archive-date = March 15, 2017 |df = mdy-all }} "Run to You",{{cite magazine |last = Bacle |first = Ariana |url = http://ew.com/music/2017/03/30/lea-michele-run-to-you-premiere/ |title = Hear Lea Michele's romantic new ballad, 'Run to You' |magazine = Entertainment Weekly |date = March 30, 2017 |access-date = May 30, 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170609122042/http://ew.com/music/2017/03/30/lea-michele-run-to-you-premiere/ |archive-date = June 9, 2017 |df = mdy-all }} and "Getaway Car".{{cite web |url = http://www.broadwayworld.com/bwwtv/article/Lea-Michele-Shares-New-Track-Getaway-Car-New-Album-Places-Out-428-20170421 |title = Lea Michele Shares New Track 'Getaway Car' + New Album 'Places' Out 4/28 |website = Broadway World |date = April 21, 2017 |access-date = May 30, 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170511094711/http://www.broadwayworld.com/bwwtv/article/Lea-Michele-Shares-New-Track-Getaway-Car-New-Album-Places-Out-428-20170421 |archive-date = May 11, 2017 |df = mdy-all }} Places was released on April 28, 2017, and debuted at number 28 on the Billboard 200 chart with over 16,000 units sold in its first week.{{cite magazine |last = Caufield |first = Keith |url = http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/chart-beat/7792898/billboard-200-chart-moves-john-mellencamp |title = Billboard 200 Chart Moves: John Mellencamp Earns 19th Top 40 Album With 'Sad Clowns & Hillbillies' |magazine = Billboard |date = May 11, 2017 |access-date = May 14, 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170515012346/http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/chart-beat/7792898/billboard-200-chart-moves-john-mellencamp |archive-date = May 15, 2017 |df = mdy-all }}

On April 4, 2017, Michele appeared as Amanda in the first episode of Hulu's science fiction anthology series Dimension 404, alongside Robert Buckley and Joel McHale.{{cite web |last = Goldberg |first = Lesley |url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/lea-michele-robert-buckley-star-900788 |title = Lea Michele, Robert Buckley to Star in Hulu Anthology 'Dimension 404' |website = The Hollywood Reporter |date = June 8, 2016 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170802001559/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/lea-michele-robert-buckley-star-900788 |archive-date = August 2, 2017 |df = mdy-all }} She subsequently portrayed political advisor Valentina Barella in ABC's sitcom The Mayor, created by Jeremy Bronson and executive produced by Daveed Diggs, starring opposite Brandon Micheal Hall and Yvette Nicole Brown.{{cite web |last = Goldberg |first = Lesley |url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/lea-michele-joins-abcs-daveed-diggs-comedy-979295 |title = Lea Michele Joins ABC's Daveed Diggs Comedy |website = The Hollywood Reporter |date = February 23, 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170501105740/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/lea-michele-joins-abcs-daveed-diggs-comedy-979295 |archive-date = May 1, 2017 |df = mdy-all }} On October 8, 2017, Michele performed as a headlining act at the third annual musical theatre festival Elsie Fest, founded by her Glee co-star Darren Criss.{{cite web |last = Lee |first = Ashley |url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/elsie-fest-2017-lineup-lea-michele-alan-cumming-ingrid-michaelson-1025727 |title = Lea Michele, Alan Cumming and Ingrid Michaelson Lead Elsie Fest Lineup |website = The Hollywood Reporter |date = August 1, 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170801160018/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/elsie-fest-2017-lineup-lea-michele-alan-cumming-ingrid-michaelson-1025727 |archive-date = August 1, 2017 |df = mdy-all }} In April 2018, it was announced that Michele would venture on a co-headlining tour with Criss. The LM/DC Tour included shows in several North American cities in May and June 2018.{{cite web |last = Chuba |first = Kirsten |url = https://variety.com/2018/music/news/lea-michele-darren-criss-tour-glee-1202747633/ |title = 'Glee' Alums Lea Michele and Darren Criss Announce Co-Headlining Tour |website = Variety |date = April 9, 2018 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180502214115/http://variety.com/2018/music/news/lea-michele-darren-criss-tour-glee-1202747633/ |archive-date = May 2, 2018 |df = mdy-all }} The tour continued from October to December 2018 in the United Kingdom and Ireland.{{cite web |url = http://abcnewsradioonline.com/music-news/2018/9/10/lea-michele-and-darren-criss-add-more-dates-to-their-lmdc-to.html |title = Lea Michele and Darren Criss add more dates to their LM/DC tour |last = Ambriz |first = Marco |date = September 10, 2018 |website = ABC News Radio |access-date = May 12, 2019 |archive-url = https://archive.today/20191211140241/http://abcnewsradioonline.com/music-news/2018/9/10/lea-michele-and-darren-criss-add-more-dates-to-their-lmdc-to.html |archive-date = December 11, 2019 |url-status = live }}{{cite news |url = https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/whats-on/music-nightlife-news/lea-michele-darren-criss-announce-15163388 |title = Lea Michele and Darren Criss announce Manchester date on UK tour - how to get tickets |last = Yates |first = Jonathan |date = September 17, 2018 |website = Manchester Evening News |access-date = May 12, 2019 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190509190124/https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/whats-on/music-nightlife-news/lea-michele-darren-criss-announce-15163388 |archive-date = May 9, 2019 |url-status = live }}

In May 2019, it was announced that Michele will host a health and wellness digital series for the Ellen DeGeneres Network, titled Well, Well, Well with Lea Michele.{{cite news |url = https://www.adweek.com/tv-video/ellen-digital-is-launching-a-new-series-with-lea-michele/ |title = Ellen Digital Is Launching a New Series With Lea Michele |last = Jerde |first = Sara |date = May 1, 2019 |work = Adweek |access-date = May 12, 2019 |url-access = registration |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190509185119/https://www.adweek.com/tv-video/ellen-digital-is-launching-a-new-series-with-lea-michele/ |archive-date = May 9, 2019 |url-status = dead }} Michele's third studio album, Christmas in the City, was released on October 25, 2019.{{cite web|url=https://people.com/music/lea-michele-christmas-in-the-city-holiday-album/|title=Lea Michele Is Releasing Her First Christmas Album: 'It's a Great Explanation of Where I'm At'|last=Tracy|first=Brianne|date=October 18, 2019|website=People|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191025131757/https://people.com/music/lea-michele-christmas-in-the-city-holiday-album/|archive-date=October 25, 2019|url-status=live}}{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/pop/8540657/lea-michele-christmas-in-the-city-interview|title=Lea Michele Names The One 'Glee' Christmas Song She Had to Revisit for Her Holiday Album|last=Tsai|first=Yu|date=October 25, 2019|magazine=Billboard|url-status=live|access-date=November 19, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191029051948/https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/pop/8540657/lea-michele-christmas-in-the-city-interview|archive-date=October 29, 2019}} She also starred as the lead in a holiday television film, Same Time, Next Christmas, for ABC.{{cite news |url = https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/lea-michele-star-abc-holiday-movie-1224260 |title = Lea Michele to Star in ABC Holiday Movie From Freeform |last = Goldberg |first = Lesley |date = July 15, 2019 |website = The Hollywood Reporter |access-date = July 19, 2019 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190719142629/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/lea-michele-star-abc-holiday-movie-1224260 |archive-date = July 19, 2019 |url-status = live }} From December 19, 2019, Lea Michele performed live with a series of shows in The Concert Hall at the New York Society for Ethical Culture.

Michele released her cover album, Forever: A Lullaby Album, on November 5, 2021.{{cite web|last=Mier|first=Tomás|title=Lea Michele to Release Lullaby Covers Album Forever Dedicated to Son Ever: A 'Dream Come True'|url=https://people.com/music/lea-michele-to-release-lullaby-covers-album-forever-dedicated-to-son-ever/|access-date=2021-11-04|website=PEOPLE.com|language=en}}

On July 11, 2022, it was announced that Michele would return to Broadway in the stage musical production of Funny Girl. Michele replaced Beanie Feldstein in the leading role of Fanny Brice on September 6, 2022 after Feldstein announced an exit from the production two months earlier than originally planned.{{Cite web |date=July 11, 2022 |first=Dave |last=Quinn |title=Lea Michele Will Join Broadway's Funny Girl as Fanny Brice After Beanie Feldstein's Early Exit |url=https://people.com/theater/lea-michele-joins-broadway-funny-girl-beanie-feldstein-exit/ |access-date=2022-07-11 |website=people.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Rubin |first=Rebecca |date=2022-07-11 |title=Lea Michele Replaces Beanie Feldstein as Fanny Brice in Broadway's 'Funny Girl' |url=https://variety.com/2022/theater/news/lea-michele-broadway-funny-girl-beanie-feldstein-1235307379/ |access-date=2022-07-11 |website=Variety}}{{cite news |last1=Jacobs |first1=Julia |title=Lea Michele Is Well Aware That the Pressure Is On |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2022/09/01/theater/lea-michele-funny-girl-broadway.html |access-date=1 September 2022 |work=The New York Times |date=1 September 2022}} Michele starred opposite Ramin Karimloo as Nick Arnstein. She was scheduled to perform seven shows a week, excluding Thursday evenings.{{cite news |last1=Saad |first1=Nardine |title=With 'Funny Girl' looming, Lea Michele is still addressing those bullying claims |url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2022-09-01/lea-michele-conduct-allegations-funny-girl |access-date=8 September 2022 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=1 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220908024429/https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2022-09-01/lea-michele-conduct-allegations-funny-girl |archive-date=8 September 2022}} The parallels between Michele taking on the role and her Glee character's story line where she lands her dream role in the musical's first Broadway revival have been widely discussed in the media.{{cite news |last1=Ruiz |first1=Michelle |title=Lea Michele Is Back on Broadway—and Ignoring the Rumors |url=https://www.vogue.com/slideshow/lea-michele-funny-girl-debut-interview |access-date=8 September 2022 |work=Vogue |date=6 September 2022}} Her character's obsession with the musical was written into Glee in part because of Michele's own interest in it since she first saw the movie adaptation in 2007. On September 11, 2022, four days into her run as Fanny Brice, Michele announced that she had tested positive for COVID-19, requiring her to isolate for at least ten days.{{Cite web |last1=September 11 |first1=Emlyn Travis Updated |last2=EDT |first2=2022 at 01:25 PM |title=Lea Michele missing more 'Funny Girl' shows due to COVID-19 test result |url=https://ew.com/theater/lea-michele-missing-funny-girl-shows-broadway-covid-symptoms/ |access-date=2022-09-11 |website=EW.com |language=en}} She returned to the stage on September 20, 2022.{{cite news |last1=Culwell-Block |first1=Logan |title=Lea Michele Returns to Broadway's Funny Girl September 20 |url=https://playbill.com/article/lea-michele-returns-to-broadways-funny-girl-september-20 |access-date=5 October 2022 |date=20 September 2022}}

Critics widely praised Michele's performance. On opening night, Michele received multiple standing ovations for her performance, which had been highly anticipated.{{cite news |last1=Ramírez |first1=Juan A. |title=Lea Michele's Funny Girl Debut Slays the Day |url=https://www.thecut.com/2022/09/lea-michele-funny-girl-broadway-debut-scene-report.html |access-date=5 October 2022 |work=The Cut |date=7 September 2022 |language=en-us}} Jackson McHenry writing for Vulture stated, "With every eye roll toward the audience and every belt, Michele seems to face the pressure to not just be good, or great, but the greatest. This is less a star vehicle than gladiatorial combat. She makes it through with blood on the sand."{{cite news |last1=Schimkowitz |first1=Matt |title=According to critics, Lea Michele gives theater kids a real Funny Girl |url=https://www.avclub.com/critics-love-lea-michele-as-fanny-brice-in-funny-girl-1849612177 |access-date=5 October 2022 |work=The A.V. Club |date=4 October 2022 |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=McHenry |first1=Jackson |title=In Funny Girl, Lea Michele Does Exactly What You Thought She Could |url=https://www.vulture.com/2022/10/theater-review-lea-michele-funny-girl-broadway.html |work=Vulture |date=2 October 2022 |language=en-us}} Jesse Green, writing for The New York Times, initially gave the musical a poor review when it starred Beanie Feldstein. After seeing Michele's iteration, he praised her performance, while maintaining his criticisms of the overall production, stating, "Both vulnerable and invulnerable, kooky and ardent, [Michele] makes the show worth watching again. She can't make it good, though. Michael Mayer's production is still garish and pushy, pandering for audience overreaction."{{cite news |last1=Green |first1=Jesse |title=Review: In Lea Michele, 'Funny Girl' Has Finally Found Its Fanny |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2022/09/29/theater/funny-girl-review-lea-michele.html |access-date=5 October 2022 |work=The New York Times |date=29 September 2022}} The show had its final performance on September 3, 2023.{{cite news |last1=Rubin |first1=Rebecca |title='Funny Girl' With Lea Michele Sets Closing Date on Broadway |url=https://variety.com/2023/legit/news/funny-girl-lea-michele-closing-date-broadway-1235540750/ |access-date=2 March 2023 |work=Variety |date=2 March 2023}}

Michele was named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time magazine in 2023.{{cite news |url=https://time.com/collection/100-most-influential-people-2023/ |title=Time 100 |magazine=Time |date=April 13, 2023 |access-date=April 15, 2023 }}

One of the most significant influential figures in Michele's life is Barbra Streisand whom she cites as her "role model". Her mother Edith played her films when she was a child. Michele dedicated a chapter in her book Brunette Ambition to Streisand, noting that it is important for people to have someone to look up to. Michele wrote, "I really love her, she's always been such a role model to me. She's someone who has built her career on focusing on what makes her unique and what makes her special."{{cite web |title = VIDEO: Lea Michele Talks GLEE, Streisand, Broadway & More on GMA |url = http://www.broadwayworld.com/bwwtv/article/VIDEO-Lea-Michele-Talks-GLEE-Streisand-Broadway-More-on-GMA-20140520 |website = Broadway World |date = May 20, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160304075548/http://www.broadwayworld.com/bwwtv/article/VIDEO-Lea-Michele-Talks-GLEE-Streisand-Broadway-More-on-GMA-20140520 |archive-date = March 4, 2016 |df = mdy-all }} An actress who influenced Michele was Natalie Wood. Michele said that she watched West Side Story as a child and wanted to play the role of Maria.

Actress and singer Audra McDonald has also been an influence on Michele. She told The Fresno Bee, "Audra is probably the best singer in the world – up there with Barbra. I don't think she has any idea what an influence she had on me. I would say 80% of my singing knowledge came from Audra... How to warm up. How to breathe. How to take care of my voice. All of my beliefs are because Audra instilled them in me."{{cite web |last = Bentley |first = Rick |url = http://www.fresnobee.com/2011/12/08/2642814/lea-micheles-career-enhanced-by.html#storylink=cpy |title = Lea Michele's career enhanced by Audra McDonald |website = The Fresno Bee |date = December 8, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140530001713/http://www.fresnobee.com/2011/12/08/2642814/lea-micheles-career-enhanced-by.html#storylink=cpy |archive-date = May 30, 2014 |df = mdy-all |access-date = May 29, 2014 }} Recording artist Alanis Morissette has been an inspiration throughout Michele's career. Morissette's album Jagged Little Pill was the first album Michele purchased, and in a 2014 interview has said she still owns. She said, "I love Alanis Morissette... All of her songs are lyrically so beautiful and vocally she's so strong."{{cite web |last = Strasburger |first = Chantal |url = http://www.teenvogue.com/entertainment/2014-05/lea-michele-inspirations |title = Lea Michele's Inspiration List: The People, Places, and Things That Changed Her Life |website = Teen Vogue |date = May 6, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140508182914/http://www.teenvogue.com/entertainment/2014-05/lea-michele-inspirations |archive-date = May 8, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} Celine Dion has also influenced her as a singer.{{cite web |url = http://www.dallasvoice.com/lea-michele-gay-interview-10169360.html |title = Lea Michele: The Gay Interview |website = Dallas Voice |date = March 19, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140530004355/http://www.dallasvoice.com/lea-michele-gay-interview-10169360.html |archive-date = May 30, 2014 |df = mdy-all |access-date = May 29, 2014 }}

File:Tops In Blue & Lea Michele at Super Bowl XLV (cropped).jpg, February 6, 2011]]

Michele possesses a soprano vocal range.{{cite web |last = Ayers |first = Michael D. |url = http://blogs.villagevoice.com/music/2009/09/interview_glee.php |title = Interview: Glee Star Lea Michele On Central Park, Comedy, and a Sweaty Co-Star |website = Village Voice |date = September 9, 2009 |access-date = August 6, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120616043320/http://blogs.villagevoice.com/music/2009/09/interview_glee.php |archive-date = June 16, 2012 |df = mdy-all }} As of 2013, her voice reportedly spans approximately 3 octaves.{{cite web |url = http://www.criticofmusic.com/2013/05/vocal-range-and-profile-lea-michelle.html |title = Vocal Range and Profile: Lea Michele |website = Critic of Music |date = May 27, 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141010002414/http://www.criticofmusic.com/2013/05/vocal-range-and-profile-lea-michelle.html |archive-date = October 10, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} Michele's vocals have been repeatedly praised. However, Christopher Weingarten of Rolling Stone critiqued that Michele's voice is "a little too perfect" for pop music charts.{{cite magazine |last = Weingarten |first = Christopher R. |url = https://www.rollingstone.com/music/albumreviews/louder-20140225 |title = Lea Michele – Louder: Album reviews |magazine = Rolling Stone |date = February 25, 2014 |access-date = February 25, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140302053605/http://www.rollingstone.com/music/albumreviews/louder-20140225 |archive-date = March 2, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} The Boston Globe stated that her voice is a "mighty soprano" and that Michele's vocals are most comfortable when she "straddles the line between Katy Perry and Celine Dion."{{cite web |last = Rodman |first = Sarah |url = https://www.bostonglobe.com/arts/music/2014/03/17/album-review-lea-michele-louder/FEZbKGB7gbZJwHQCwUxS6I/story.html |title = Lea Michele, 'Louder': Review |website = The Boston Globe |date = March 18, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160307213410/https://www.bostonglobe.com/arts/music/2014/03/17/album-review-lea-michele-louder/FEZbKGB7gbZJwHQCwUxS6I/story.html |archive-date = March 7, 2016 |df = mdy-all }} Hanh Nguyen wrote of Michele's voice on the Glee Live! In Concert! tour, "One can truly hear the quality of the live vocals, which in the case of Lea Michele is the real deal. She sounds even better than on the show... Her "Don't Rain on My Parade" live is an amazing and thrilling treat."{{cite web |last = Nguyen |first = Hanh |url = http://blog.zap2it.com/frominsidethebox/2010/05/glee-live-high-and-low-notes-bad-romance-brittany-and-barf-bags.html |title = 'Glee: Live' high and low notes: 'Bad Romance,' Brittany and barf bags |website = Zap2it |date = May 21, 2010 |access-date = May 23, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100522020353/http://blog.zap2it.com/frominsidethebox/2010/05/glee-live-high-and-low-notes-bad-romance-brittany-and-barf-bags.html |archive-date = May 22, 2010 |df = mdy-all }} Billboard called her live performance of "Love Is Alive" on The Late Late Show with James Corden an "emotional performance [that] showcased Michele's strong vocal ability."{{cite magazine |last = Tom |first = Lauren |url = http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/pop/7727728/lea-michele-love-is-alive-late-late-show-performance-video |title = Lea Michele Performs New Single 'Love Is Alive' on 'The Late Late Show With James Corden': Watch |magazine = Billboard |date = March 15, 2017 |access-date = June 13, 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170611140020/http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/pop/7727728/lea-michele-love-is-alive-late-late-show-performance-video |archive-date = June 11, 2017 |df = mdy-all }}

{{Seealso|List of awards and nominations received by Lea Michele}}

Michele has received multiple accolades throughout her career. Her breakthrough performance as Rachel Berry in the Fox musical series Glee received widespread recognition, for which she was nominated for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 2010 and twice consecutively for the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series {{Ndash}} Musical or Comedy; and once in 2011 for the Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals for the cast performance of "Don't Stop Believin'". As a member of the series' ensemble cast, Michele won a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series once in 2010 out of four consecutive nominations. Prior to Glee, Michele received some recognition on stage, earning a Drama Desk Award nomination for her role in a 2007 production of Spring Awakening. In 2022, Michele returned to Broadway playing Fanny Brice in a revival of Funny Girl, to widespread critical acclaim.

In June 2020, actress Samantha Marie Ware accused Michele of bullying her and causing "traumatic microaggressions" while they worked together on the sixth season of Glee.{{cite news |last1=Nugent |first1=Annabel |title=Glee's Heather Morris claims people were 'very scared' to talk about Lea Michele's 'bullying' behaviour |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/tv/news/glee-heather-morris-lea-michele-b1855147.html |access-date=12 October 2022 |work=The Independent |date=27 May 2021 |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=Grady |first1=Constance |title=A complete timeline of the Lea Michele-Beanie Feldstein-Funny Girl casting controversy |url=https://www.vox.com/culture/23205237/lea-michele-beanie-feldstein-funny-girl-casting-controversy |access-date=12 October 2022 |work=Vox |date=13 July 2022 |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=Wagmeister |first1=Elizabeth |title='Glee' Actor Samantha Ware on Why She Called Out Lea Michele (EXCLUSIVE) |url=https://variety.com/2020/tv/news/samantha-ware-glee-lea-michele-interview-black-actress-hollywood-1234631015/ |access-date=12 October 2022 |work=Variety |date=11 June 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Sharf |first1=Zach |title=Lea Michele Confronts Bullying Accusations, Slams 'Online Rumor' Claiming She Can't Read: 'It's Sad. It Really Is' |url=https://variety.com/2022/tv/news/lea-michele-confronts-bullying-accusations-rumor-cant-read-1235357013/ |access-date=12 October 2022 |date=1 September 2022}}{{cite news|first=Marianne |last=Garvey|title=Lea Michele apologizes after Samantha Marie Ware accuses her of making 'Glee' a 'living hell'|url=https://www.cnn.com/2020/06/03/entertainment/lea-michele-glee-samantha-marie-ware/index.html|access-date=June 5, 2020|website=CNN|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200603150252/https://www.cnn.com/2020/06/03/entertainment/lea-michele-glee-samantha-marie-ware/index.html|archive-date=June 3, 2020|url-status=live}} Ware made her comments in direct response to Michele having posted a message on social media saying "George Floyd did not deserve this. This was not an isolated incident and it must end. #BlackLivesMatter." Other actors, including former Glee co-stars Heather Morris, Alex Newell, and Amber Riley, among others, agreed that Michele had been hostile and rude to others on set, and had had a prima donna attitude.{{cite news |last1=Durney |first1=Ellen |title="Glee's" Samantha Ware Accused Broadway Of Upholding Whiteness After Casting Lea Michele In "Funny Girl" |url=https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/ellendurney/glee-samantha-ware-on-lea-michele-funny-girl-casting |access-date=12 October 2022 |work=BuzzFeed News |date=12 July 2022 |language=en}} Riley and Morris disputed the implication that Michele's behavior had been racist.{{cite news |url=https://people.com/tv/glee-heather-morris-says-lea-michele-was-unpleasant-to-work-with/ |title=Glee's Heather Morris Says Lea Michele Was 'Unpleasant to Work With': 'She Should Be Called Out' |first=Robyn |last=Merrett |work=People |date=June 3, 2020 |access-date=June 5, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200605060630/https://people.com/tv/glee-heather-morris-says-lea-michele-was-unpleasant-to-work-with/ |archive-date=June 5, 2020 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=https://people.com/tv/amber-riley-clarifies-that-lea-michele-isnt-racist-hasnt-talked-to-her-in-2-years/ |title=Amber Riley Addresses Lea Michele Controversy: 'I'm Not Going to Say That She's Racist' |first=Benjamin |last=VanHoose |work=People |date=June 4, 2020 |access-date=June 5, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200606062014/https://people.com/tv/amber-riley-clarifies-that-lea-michele-isnt-racist-hasnt-talked-to-her-in-2-years/ |archive-date=June 6, 2020 |url-status=live }} Michele responded with an apology, noting that the comments from numerous cast members in response to Ware's accusation had made her aware that her general treatment of all cast members during those years was "insensitive or inappropriate", a sign of "immaturity", and that she was "unnecessarily difficult" toward others around her, and she would "keep working to better myself and take responsibility for my actions."

Michele has been the subject of rumors, conspiracy theories, and jokes that she is illiterate since 2017, with the rumor becoming a popular Internet meme in March 2018 and again in 2022. The rumor started with Jaye Hunt and Robert Ackerman of the podcast One More Thing as they were discussing a scene from Naya Rivera's memoir Sorry Not Sorry in which Michele refused to improvise scenes with Tim Conway.{{cite news |last1=Reynolds |first1=Megan |title=Talking to the Delightful Creators of the 'Lea Michele Can't Read' Conspiracy |url=https://jezebel.com/talking-to-the-delightful-creators-of-the-lea-michele-c-1825179784 |access-date=2 September 2022 |work=Jezebel |date=11 April 2018 |language=en-us}} Michele responded in an interview with The New York Times in September 2022, saying, "I went to Glee every single day; I knew my lines every single day, and then there's a rumor online that I can't read or write? It's sad. It really is. I think often if I were a man, a lot of this wouldn't be the case."{{cite news |last1=Mack |first1=David |title=Lea Michele Said The Rumor She Can't Read Is Sexist |url=https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/davidmack/lea-michele-cant-read-conspiracy-funny-girl-broadway |access-date=2 September 2022 |work=BuzzFeed News |date=1 September 2022 |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=Evans |first1=Greg |title=Lea Michele Calls Out Sexist Online Bullying, Dismisses Rumor Of Illiteracy As "Sad" |url=https://deadline.com/2022/09/lea-michele-illiteracy-sad-online-bullying-sexist-funny-girl-1235105591/ |access-date=2 September 2022 |work=Deadline |date=1 September 2022}}{{cite news |last1=Martinez |first1=Jose |title=Lea Michele Addresses Rumor That She's Illiterate |url=https://www.complex.com/pop-culture/lea-michele-addresses-rumor-that-she-is-illiterate |access-date=2 September 2022 |work=Complex |date=1 September 2022 |language=en}}

{{too detailed|date=October 2022}}

File:Lea Michele by David Shankbone 2010.jpg]]

Michele supported Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, performing in December 2007 at the Lucille Lortel Theatre for Unsung: 'Tis The Season To Be Naughty.{{cite web |url = http://www.broadwayworld.com/cabaret/article/BCEF-Hosts-Unsung-Tis-the-Season-to-be-Naughty-Dec10-20071209?PageSpeed=noscript |title = BC/EF Hosts 'Unsung: 'Tis the Season to be Naughty' Dec.10 |website = Broadway World |date = December 9, 2007 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140529194552/http://www.broadwayworld.com/cabaret/article/BCEF-Hosts-Unsung-Tis-the-Season-to-be-Naughty-Dec10-20071209?PageSpeed=noscript |archive-date = May 29, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} She has also participated in Broadway Barks, Broadway Bares, the Easter Bonnet Competition, and the Flea Market and Grand Auction.{{cite web |last = Gans |first = Andrew |url = http://www.playbill.com/news/article/107495-Bundy-Groff-and-Ziemba-Among-Easter-Bonnet-Hosts-Esparza-to-Sing |title = Bundy, Groff and Ziemba Among Easter Bonnet Hosts; Esparza to Sing |website = Playbill |date = April 20, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130524012144/http://www.playbill.com/news/article/107495-Bundy-Groff-and-Ziemba-Among-Easter-Bonnet-Hosts-Esparza-to-Sing |archive-date = May 24, 2013 |df = mdy-all }} Michele has been active in campaigning for animal rights; in 2008, she appeared in the PETA advertising campaign "Buck Cruelty! Say No to Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides".{{cite web |url = http://www.broadwayworld.com/printcolumn.php?id=27690 |title = Spring Awakening Actress Lea Michele Joins PETA Campaign |website = Broadway World |date = February 3, 2014 |access-date = March 3, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130802013652/http://broadwayworld.com/printcolumn.php?id=27690 |archive-date = August 2, 2013 |df = mdy-all }} In 2008, Michele performed in a benefit concert production of Alive in the World to aid the Twin Towers Orphan Fund. In support of gay rights, she performed at the Human Rights Campaign dinner in November 2009.{{cite web |url = http://www.broadwayworld.com/article/STAGE_TUBE_Lea_Michele_Sings_On_My_Own_at_the_Human_Rights_Campaign_Dinner_20091124 |title = Stage Tube: Lea Michele Sings 'On My Own' at the Human Rights Campaign Dinner |website = Broadway World |access-date = March 3, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120725024941/http://broadwayworld.com/article/STAGE_TUBE_Lea_Michele_Sings_On_My_Own_at_the_Human_Rights_Campaign_Dinner_20091124 |archive-date = July 25, 2012 |df = mdy-all }}{{cite web |url = http://www.hrc.org/videos/month/2009/10/videos-hrc-national-dinner-lea-michele |title = HRC National Dinner: Lea Michele |publisher = Human Rights Campaign |date = October 12, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140527220510/http://www.hrc.org/videos/month/2009/10/videos-hrc-national-dinner-lea-michele |archive-date = May 27, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} In the same month, Michele and Jonathan Groff performed for True Colors Cabaret, a fundraiser in support of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality.{{cite web |last = Glikas |first = Bruce |url = http://www.broadway.com/buzz/140651/lea-michele-and-jonathan-groff-reunite-onstage-at-true-colors-cabaret/ |title = Lea Michele and Jonathan Groff Reunite Onstage at True Colors Cabaret |website = Broadway World |date = November 30, 2009 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130521073410/http://www.broadway.com/buzz/140651/lea-michele-and-jonathan-groff-reunite-onstage-at-true-colors-cabaret/ |archive-date = May 21, 2013 |df = mdy-all }} In April 2010, Michele appeared in a public service announcement for PETA, speaking out against fur clothing.{{cite web |first=Ella|last=Ngo|url = http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/b175521_lea_michele_says_no_fur_in_peta_ad.html |title = Lea Michele Says No to Fur in PETA Ad |website = E! Online |date = April 8, 2010 |access-date = March 3, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130731053958/http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/b175521_lea_michele_says_no_fur_in_peta_ad.html |archive-date = July 31, 2013 |df = mdy-all }} In September 2010, Michele was honored by PETA for her work with animals.{{cite web |url = http://www.radaronline.com/exclusives/2010/09/lea-michele-and-alec-baldwin-team-animals |title = Lea Michele And Alec Baldwin Team Up For The Animals |website = Radar Online |date = September 1, 2010 |access-date = March 3, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140207171304/http://radaronline.com/exclusives/2010/09/lea-michele-and-alec-baldwin-team-animals/ |archive-date = February 7, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} In 2010 Lea Michele was introduced in Time 100 list for her artistic talent and the ability to influence student participation in school activities.{{cite news|date=2011-05-28|title=Lea Michele - The 2010 TIME 100 - TIME|url=http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,1984685_1984940_1985535,00.html|access-date=2021-11-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110528051442/http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,1984685_1984940_1985535,00.html|archive-date=May 28, 2011}}

In October 2010, Michele performed at a benefit concert for The Painted Turtle. The concert celebrated the 35th anniversary of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, with Michele playing the lead role of Janet Weiss.{{cite web |last = Gans |first = Andrew |url = http://www.playbill.com/news/article/144412-Rocky-Horror-Picture-Show-Tribute-With-Lea-Michele-Matthew-Morrison-Presented-Oct-28 |title = Rocky Horror Picture Show Tribute, With Lea Michele, Matthew Morrison, Presented October 28 |website = Playbill |date = October 28, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20101203105611/http://www.playbill.com/news/article/144412-Rocky-Horror-Picture-Show-Tribute-With-Lea-Michele-Matthew-Morrison-Presented-Oct-28 |archive-date = December 3, 2010 |df = mdy-all }} In February 2011, she performed for the Grammy Award's MusiCares benefit in Los Angeles.{{cite web |last = Gans |first = Andrew |url = http://www.playbill.com/news/article/147539-Kristin-Chenoweth-Matthew-Morrison-Lea-Michele-Honor-Streisand-at-Feb-11-MusiCares-Gala |title = Kristin Chenoweth, Matthew Morrison, Lea Michele Honor Streisand at Feb. 11 MusiCares Gala |website = Playbill |date = February 11, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110215125938/http://www.playbill.com/news/article/147539-Kristin-Chenoweth-Matthew-Morrison-Lea-Michele-Honor-Streisand-at-Feb-11-MusiCares-Gala |archive-date = February 15, 2011 |df = mdy-all }} In April 2012, Michele performed for the Jonsson Cancer Center Foundation's 17th annual signature fundraiser, Taste for a Cure, at UCLA with her Glee co-star Darren Criss.{{cite web |url = http://www.thisweekinbeverlyhills.com/2012/04/12/taste-for-a-cure/ |title = Past Events: Taste for a Cure |website = This Week in Beverly Hills |date = April 12, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141019162523/http://www.thisweekinbeverlyhills.com/2012/04/12/taste-for-a-cure/ |archive-date = October 19, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} In October 2012, she and Criss performed together at the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles 2012 Stars Gala.{{cite web |last = Denley |first = Susan |url = http://www.gossipcenter.com/lea-michele/lea-michele-performs-big-brothers-big-sisters-la-gala-751057 |title = Darren Criss, Lea Michele sing at Big Brothers/Sisters benefit |website = Los Angeles Times |date = October 29, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150510010748/http://www.gossipcenter.com/lea-michele/lea-michele-performs-big-brothers-big-sisters-la-gala-751057 |archive-date = May 10, 2015 |df = mdy-all }} In July 2012, Michele hosted the launch of the Valspar Hands for Habitat charity auction, donating a signed hand print to be auctioned off. Money raised from the auction benefited Habitat for Humanity's disaster response programs.{{cite web |url = http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/actress-lea-michele-lends-a-hand-to-habitat-for-humanity-to-launch-the-valspar-hands-for-habitat-program-163160486.html |title = Actress Lea Michele 'Lends a Hand' to Habitat for Humanity to Launch the Valspar Hands for Habitat Program |website = PR Newswire |date = July 20, 2012 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160304230803/http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/actress-lea-michele-lends-a-hand-to-habitat-for-humanity-to-launch-the-valspar-hands-for-habitat-program-163160486.html |archive-date = March 4, 2016 |df = mdy-all }} Michele has been an ambassador for L'Oréal's Women of Worth program since December 2012, celebrating women who have positively impacted their communities.{{cite web |last = Schweitzer |first = Kate |url = http://www.marieclaire.com/beauty/news/a7408/lea-michele-loreal-sweepstakes/ |title = Join Lea Michele in Supporting Women of Worth |website = Marie Claire |date = December 18, 2012 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160304142356/http://www.marieclaire.com/beauty/news/a7408/lea-michele-loreal-sweepstakes/ |archive-date = March 4, 2016 |df = mdy-all }} In June 2013, she co-hosted the launch of Feed America for Target stores. Proceeds from the lifestyle collection benefited Feeding America.{{cite web |last = Mychaskiw |first = Marianne |url = http://www.instyle.com/news/exclusive-instyle-tours-lauren-bush-laurens-feed-usa-collection-target |title = Exclusive! InStyle Tours Lauren Bush Lauren's FEED USA Collection for Target |website = InStyle |date = June 20, 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160306080512/http://www.instyle.com/news/exclusive-instyle-tours-lauren-bush-laurens-feed-usa-collection-target |archive-date = March 6, 2016 |df = mdy-all }}

In August 2013, Michele once again donated a hand print to the Valspar Hands for Habitat charity auction.{{cite web |title = Lea Michele Valspar Hearts and Hands |url = http://www.habitat.org/newsroom/2013archive/08_19_2013_Valspar_Launches_HeartsandHands.aspx |website = Hands for Habitat |date = August 19, 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131004214311/http://www.habitat.org/newsroom/2013archive/08_19_2013_Valspar_Launches_HeartsandHands.aspx |archive-date = October 4, 2013 |df = mdy-all }} She was then the host of the fundraiser "Lea Michele's Night of Shopping and Cocktails" on December 14, 2013, presented by SodaStream, which benefited Chrysalis, a non-profit organization helping homeless people find work. In April 2014, Michele and Darren Criss once again performed together at the 19th annual Taste for a Cure event for the Jonsson Cancer Center Foundation.{{cite web |last = Olivier |first = Ellen |url = http://www.latimes.com/fashion/alltherage/la-ar-darren-criss-lea-michele-perform-at-taste-for-a-cure-fundraiser-20140426,0,2000987.story#axzz30GXlZGI1 |title = Darren Criss, Lea Michele perform at Taste for a Cure fundraiser |website = Los Angeles Times |date = April 26, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140429150131/http://www.latimes.com/fashion/alltherage/la-ar-darren-criss-lea-michele-perform-at-taste-for-a-cure-fundraiser-20140426,0,2000987.story#axzz30GXlZGI1 |archive-date = April 29, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} In October 2014, she teamed up with Evian to encourage women to perform their own breast exams in an attempt to raise awareness of early cancer detection.{{cite web |last = Glein |first = Kelsey |url = http://www.news.instyle.com/2014/10/06/lea-michele-teams-up-with-evian-to-promote-breast-cancer-awareness/ |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141009231334/http://news.instyle.com/2014/10/06/lea-michele-teams-up-with-evian-to-promote-breast-cancer-awareness/ |url-status=dead |archive-date = October 9, 2014 |title = Lea Michele Teams Up with Evian to Promote Breast Cancer Awareness |website = InStyle |date = October 6, 2014 }} In February 2016, it was announced that Michele would collaborate with Burt's Bees in a campaign to act on the declining population of bees.{{cite web |last = Fields |first = Jackie |url = http://stylenews.peoplestylewatch.com/2016/02/24/behind-the-scenes-of-lea-michele-and-burts-bees-partnership/ |title = Exclusive: Go Behind the Scenes of Lea Michele and Burt's Bees' Brand New Partnership |website = People |date = February 24, 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160225115546/http://stylenews.peoplestylewatch.com/2016/02/24/behind-the-scenes-of-lea-michele-and-burts-bees-partnership/ |archive-date = February 25, 2016 |df = mdy-all }}

In June 2016, the Human Rights Campaign released a video in tribute to the victims of the 2016 Orlando gay nightclub shooting, in which Michele and other celebrities told the stories of the people killed there.{{cite web |last = Brown |first = Jay |url = http://www.hrc.org/blog/watch-49-celebrities-honor-49-victims-of-orlando-tragedy-in-new-ryan-murphy |title = 49 Celebrities Honor 49 Victims of Orlando Tragedy |website = Human Rights Campaign |date = June 29, 2016 |access-date = June 30, 2016 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160701211701/http://www.hrc.org/blog/watch-49-celebrities-honor-49-victims-of-orlando-tragedy-in-new-ryan-murphy |archive-date = July 1, 2016 |url-status=dead }} Michele continues to support the Los Angeles-based non-profit Step Up and attends their annual Step Up Inspiration Awards event. In April 2017, Barnes & Noble donated a portion of every purchase of Places to Step Up.{{cite tweet |number = 857998202603159552 |title = BNSantaMonica on Twitter |user = BNSantaMonica |date = April 28, 2017 |access-date = June 13, 2017 }} In November 2017, Michele partnered with eBay to design a pin to benefit Feeding America; she also auctioned off a set visit to one of her projects in 2018.{{cite web |last = Fowler |first = Brandi |url = http://www.instyle.com/news/lea-michele-giving-tuesday-ebay-charity-feeding-america |title = Lea Michele Designed This Super-Cute Pin to Help Fight Hunger |website = InStyle |date = November 28, 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171203153858/http://www.instyle.com/news/lea-michele-giving-tuesday-ebay-charity-feeding-america |archive-date = December 3, 2017 |df = mdy-all }} In April 2019, she performed for the "A Grand Night" fundraising gala held at the Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles.{{cite web |url = https://variety.com/2019/legit/events/lea-michele-darren-criss-seth-macfarlane-perform-broadway-favorites-center-theatre-group-gala-1203196284/ |title = Lea Michele, Darren Criss, Seth MacFarlane Croon Broadway Favorites at Center Theatre Group Gala |first = Malina |last1 = Saval |date = April 24, 2019 |website = Variety |access-date = May 31, 2019 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190426102417/https://variety.com/2019/legit/events/lea-michele-darren-criss-seth-macfarlane-perform-broadway-favorites-center-theatre-group-gala-1203196284/ |archive-date = April 26, 2019 |url-status = live }} On May 1, 2019, Michele joined Former First Lady Michelle Obama at Reach Higher's 2019 College Signing Day.{{cite press release |url = https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/conan-obrien-kelly-rowland-lea-michele-jidenna-elizabeth-banks-patton-oswalt-eva-longoria-pentatonix-bebe-rexha-jesse-williams-usher-yvonne-orji-elaine-welteroth-la-la-anthony-john-legend-and-don-cheadle-to-join-for-300836579.html |title = Conan O'Brien, Kelly Rowland, Lea Michele, Jidenna, Elizabeth Banks, Patton Oswalt, Eva Longoria, Pentatonix, Bebe Rexha, Jesse Williams, Usher, Yvonne Orji, Elaine Welteroth, La La Anthony, John Legend and Don Cheadle to join Former First Lady Michelle Obama at Reach Higher's 2019 College Signing Day |website = PR Newswire |access-date = May 31, 2019 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190509181845/https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/conan-obrien-kelly-rowland-lea-michele-jidenna-elizabeth-banks-patton-oswalt-eva-longoria-pentatonix-bebe-rexha-jesse-williams-usher-yvonne-orji-elaine-welteroth-la-la-anthony-john-legend-and-don-cheadle-to-join-for-300836579.html |archive-date = May 9, 2019 |url-status = live }} On November 24, 2019 she visited ill children at Children's Health Care of Atlanta.http://www.bta.bg/en/gallery/image/6276530{{dead-link|date=June 2020}}

In 2007, along with her Spring Awakening co-stars, Michele was featured in a Gap Inc. marketing campaign. The campaign included magazine advertisement spreads and billboards in Times Square.{{cite web |last = Henderson |first = Kathy |url = http://www.broadway.com/buzz/141771/qa-lea-michele/ |title = Q&A – Lea Michele |website = Broadway.com |date = January 15, 2008 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140523230526/http://www.broadway.com/buzz/141771/qa-lea-michele/ |archive-date = May 23, 2014 |df = mdy-all }} In 2010, Michele became a spokesmodel for beauty company Dove, performing the song "My Favorite Things" from The Sound of Music in television commercials for the brand.{{cite web |last = Portuguez |first = Enid |url = http://www.instyle.com/news/lea-michele-sings-my-favorite-things |title = Lea Michele Sings "My Favorite Things" |website = InStyle |date = May 18, 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160419082449/http://www.instyle.com/news/lea-michele-sings-my-favorite-things |archive-date = April 19, 2016 |df = mdy-all }} The following year, she appeared in a Super Bowl commercial for Chevrolet, along with most of her Glee co-stars. She performed the song "See the USA in Your Chevrolet" as Rachel Berry.{{cite web |last = Bundy |first = Brill |url = http://zap2it.com/2011/02/glee-takes-us-to-see-the-usa-in-a-chevrolet/ |title = 'Glee' takes us to 'See the USA' in a Chevrolet |website = Zap2it |access-date = February 7, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160611023047/http://zap2it.com/2011/02/glee-takes-us-to-see-the-usa-in-a-chevrolet/ |archive-date = June 11, 2016 |df = mdy-all }} Also in 2011, Michele became a spokesperson for a Nike workout application.{{cite web |url = http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/03/24/lea-micheles-nike-training-club-app_n_840335.html |title = Lea Michele's Nike Training Club App |website = The Huffington Post |date = March 24, 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110326181630/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/03/24/lea-micheles-nike-training-club-app_n_840335.html |archive-date = March 26, 2011 |df = mdy-all }} In September 2011, she appeared in commercials for the HP TouchPad.{{cite web |url = http://www.webosnation.com/glee-s-lea-michele-does-hp-touchpad-commercial-beats-video |title = Glee's Lea Michele does HP TouchPad commercial with Beats [video] |website = WebOS Nation |date = July 21, 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140527215035/http://www.webosnation.com/glee-s-lea-michele-does-hp-touchpad-commercial-beats-video |archive-date = May 27, 2014 |df = mdy-all }}

In January 2012, Candie's announced that Michele would be the spokesmodel for their brand, taking over from Vanessa Hudgens who was the face of the brand for the previous year.{{cite web |last1 = Serpe |first1 = Gina |last2 = Baker |first2 = Ken |url = http://www.eonline.com/news/glees_lea_michele_candies_girl_stylish/285980 |title = Glee's Lea Michele Is a Candie's Girl! Stylish Star Named New Spokeswoman |website = E! Online |date = January 12, 2012 |access-date = July 14, 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120529105708/http://www.eonline.com/news/glees_lea_michele_candies_girl_stylish/285980 |archive-date = May 29, 2012 |df = mdy-all }} In September 2012, it was revealed that Michele had signed an estimated $1 million deal to be a spokesperson for L'Oréal Paris. She has appeared in magazine spreads and television commercials promoting their products.{{cite web |last = Hogan |first = Kate |url = http://stylenews.peoplestylewatch.com/2012/09/17/lea-michele-makeup-loreal-paris/ |title = The Rumors Are True! Lea Michele Is the New Face of L'Oréal Paris |website = People |date = September 17, 2012 |access-date = July 14, 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130804015333/http://stylenews.peoplestylewatch.com/2012/09/17/lea-michele-makeup-loreal-paris/ |archive-date = August 4, 2013 |df = mdy-all }} In September 2015, Pixelberry Studios announced their collaboration with Michele, launching High School Story with Lea Michele, a celebrity takeover update of their popular app.{{cite web |last = Pehanick |first = Maggie |url = http://www.popsugar.com/tech/Lea-Michele-Launches-High-School-Story-App-Update-38348136 |title = Can't Get Enough of High School Story? Lea Michele Is Starring in the New Update |website = PopSugar |date = September 9, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150910142346/http://www.popsugar.com/tech/Lea-Michele-Launches-High-School-Story-App-Update-38348136 |archive-date = September 10, 2015 |df = mdy-all }} In December 2018 Michele teamed with Old Navy and Lyft to announce free car sharing to stores for holidays.{{cite web |url = https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181211005108/en/Navy-Lyft-Team-Last-Minute-Holiday-Shopping-Easier |title = Old Navy and Lyft Team Up to Make Last-Minute Holiday Shopping Easier Than Ever |date = December 11, 2018 |website = Businesswire |access-date = May 31, 2019 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190524185728/https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181211005108/en/Navy-Lyft-Team-Last-Minute-Holiday-Shopping-Easier |archive-date = May 24, 2019 |url-status = live }} In February 2019, Michele appeared in a commercial for ZOLA, a wedding planning website.{{cite web |url = https://www.brides.com/story/lea-michele-wedding-registry |title = Every Bride Will Want to Immediately Copy Lea Michele's Wedding Registry |website = Brides.com |access-date = May 31, 2019 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190509182353/https://www.brides.com/story/lea-michele-wedding-registry |archive-date = May 9, 2019 |url-status = live }}

Michele had a partnership with meal kit delivery service HelloFresh until June 2, 2020, when the company announced they had ended their partnership with her as a result of a controversy surrounding accusations of bullying against Michele.{{cite web|work=Business Insider|url=https://www.businessinsider.com/hellofresh-lea-michele-allegations-racist-bullying-2020-6|title=HelloFresh severs partnership with Lea Michele after 'Glee' co-star alleges the singer engaged in on-set bullying|first=Áine|last=Cain|date=June 2, 2020|access-date=June 4, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200604053707/https://www.businessinsider.com/hellofresh-lea-michele-allegations-racist-bullying-2020-6|archive-date=June 4, 2020|url-status=live}}

Michele began working with actor Cory Monteith in 2008, when they were cast as love interests on Glee.{{cite web|title=O-M-Glee: Lea Michele and Cory Monteith|url=http://www.teenvogue.com/entertainment/cover-stars/2010-11/lea-michele-cory-monteith-teen-vogue-december-january-2010|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130717111115/http://www.teenvogue.com/entertainment/cover-stars/2010-11/lea-michele-cory-monteith-teen-vogue-december-january-2010|archive-date=July 17, 2013|website=Teen Vogue|date=November 15, 2010|df=mdy-all}} In February 2012, the media reported that they had begun dating.{{cite web|date=February 21, 2012|title=Life & Style Exclusive: Glee Co-Stars Lea Michele and Cory Monteith Dating!|url=http://www.lifeandstylemag.com/entertainment/news/life-style-exclusive-glee-co-stars-lea-michele-and-cory-monteith-dating|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927011011/http://www.lifeandstylemag.com/entertainment/news/life-style-exclusive-glee-co-stars-lea-michele-and-cory-monteith-dating|archive-date=September 27, 2013|website=Life & Style}} They remained together until his death in July 2013.{{cite web|last=Becky|first=Freeth|date=July 25, 2013|title=Lea Michele Gives Emotional Interview About Boyfriend Cory Monteith|url=http://www.marieclaire.co.uk/news/celebrity/543714/lea-michele-gives-emotional-interview-about-boyfriend-cory-monteith.html#index=1|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130727055919/http://www.marieclaire.co.uk/news/celebrity/543714/lea-michele-gives-emotional-interview-about-boyfriend-cory-monteith.html#index=1|archive-date=July 27, 2013|website=Marie Claire}}

Michele and businessman Zandy Reich were married on March 9, 2019, in Napa, California.{{cite web|last=Elizabeth|first=Leonard|date=March 9, 2019|title=Lea Michele and Zandy Reich Are Married — See Their First Wedding Photo!|url=https://people.com/tv/lea-michele-zandy-reich-are-married/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190310061323/https://people.com/tv/lea-michele-zandy-reich-are-married/|archive-date=March 10, 2019|website=People}} They have two children: a son, born in August 2020{{Cite news|last=Mizoguchi|first=Karen|date=August 23, 2020|title=Lea Michele Gives Birth, Welcomes 1st Child With Husband Zandy Reich|work=Us Magazine|url=https://people.com/parents/lea-michele-zandy-reich-name-son-ever-leo/}} and a daughter, born in August 2024.{{cite web | last=Rosenbloom | first=Alli | title=Lea Michele welcomes baby girl | website=CNN | date=August 25, 2024 | url=https://www.cnn.com/2024/08/25/entertainment/lea-michele-baby-girl/index.html#:~:text=Lea%20Michele%20is%20a%20mom%20of | access-date=September 12, 2024}}

In September 2019, Michele revealed she had polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). She was diagnosed around the age of 30, having struggled with symptoms such as weight gain and acne since the end of Glee.{{cite web | title=Lea Michele Learned She Has PCOS - Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: 'The Side Effects Can Be Brutal' | website=Peoplemag | date=2019-09-10 | url=https://people.com/health/lea-michele-learned-she-has-pcos-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-the-side-effects-can-be-brutal/ | access-date=2022-11-22}}

{{main|Lea Michele on screen and stage}}

• Buster & Chauncey's Silent Night (1998)
• Glee (2009{{ndash}}2015)
• Glee: The 3D Concert Movie (2011)
• New Year's Eve (2011)
• Scream Queens (2015{{ndash}}2016)
• The Mayor (2017{{ndash}}2018)

• Les Misérables (1995{{ndash}}1996)
• Ragtime (1997{{ndash}}1999)
• The Diary of Anne Frank (2004)
• Fiddler on the Roof (2004{{ndash}}2005)
• Spring Awakening (2006{{ndash}}2008)
• Les Misérables (2008)
• The Rocky Horror Show (2010)
• The Little Mermaid (2019)
• Funny Girl (2022{{ndash}}2023)

• Once Upon a Dream (2008)
• Glee Live! In Concert! (2010–2011)
• An Intimate Evening with Lea Michele (2017)
• LM/DC Tour (with Darren Criss) (2018)
• Christmas in NYC: Live in Concert (2019)
• Spring Awakening Reunion Concert (2021)
• Life in Music Tour (2022)
• Carnegie Hall debut (2023)
• Lea Michele Live (2025)

{{main|Lea Michele discography}}

• Louder (2014)
• Places (2017)
• Christmas in the City (2019)
• Forever (2021)

{{main|Glee albums discography|Glee songs discography|List of songs in Glee}}

• Ragtime original Broadway cast recording
• Fiddler on the Roof revival Broadway cast recording
• Spring Awakening original Broadway cast recording
• Glee 16 soundtracks, 6 compilations, 11 EP's.
• New Year's Eve soundtracks
• Legends of Oz: Dorothy's Return soundtrack
• Funny Girl revival Broadway cast recording

• Brunette Ambition (2014)
• You First: Journal Your Way to Your Best Life (2015)

{{Portal|Music}}

• List of songs in Glee (seasons 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6)

{{notelist}}

{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}

{{Commons category}}

{{Wikiquote}}

• {{Official website}}
• {{IMDb name}}
• {{AllMusic}}
• {{IBDB name}}

{{Lea Michele}}

{{Satellite Award for Best Actress – Television Series Musical or Comedy}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Michele, Lea}}

Category:1986 births

Category:Living people

Category:20th-century American actresses

Category:20th-century American singers

Category:20th-century American women singers

Category:21st-century American actresses

Category:21st-century American singers

Category:21st-century American women singers

Category:Actresses from Tenafly, New Jersey

Category:Actresses from the Bronx

Category:American child actresses

Category:American child singers

Category:American women pop singers

Category:American film actresses

Category:American musical theatre actresses

Category:American people of Greek-Jewish descent

Category:American people of Italian descent

Category:American sopranos

Category:American television actresses

Category:American voice actresses

Category:American child pop musicians

Category:Columbia Records artists

Category:American LGBTQ rights activists

Category:New Jersey Democrats

Category:People from Brentwood, Los Angeles

Category:Singers from New Jersey

Category:Singers from New York City

Category:Tenafly High School alumni