Justina Machado is experiencing a powerful full-circle moment on Broadway.
The One Day at a Time and Six Feet Under star is now a Tony Award nominee for her role in the musical Real Women Have Curves, a story she first stepped into more than 30 years ago.
Back in 1993, a young Machado played the role of Ana—the ambitious daughter—in the original play by Josefina López. Now, in the 2025 Broadway musical adaptation, she portrays Carmen, Ana’s strong-willed mother.
“It was always my dream to originate a role in a musical and be nominated for a Tony,” Machado said at the recent “Meet the Nominees” event. “I can say that now.”
The musical, directed by Tony winner Sergio Trujillo, features music by Joy Huerta and Benjamin Velez and is currently playing at New York’s James Earl Jones Theatre.
Set in 1987 East L.A., the story explores family tension, immigration, and body image. For Machado, the themes hit harder now. “As a 19-year-old, I didn’t understand deportation or those struggles. Now, I do.”
Carmen is flawed but deeply human. “She’s a combination of my abuela, my mother, and my tías,” Machado explained. “Women who didn’t always say the right thing but would do anything for you.”
The show has deeply resonated with audiences, especially Latinx viewers. “People are weeping. They feel seen and understood,” Machado said.
Though the musical didn’t receive a Best Musical Tony nomination, Machado isn’t discouraged. “It’s bittersweet,” she admitted. “But we’re changing lives. That’s what matters.”
A standout moment in the show is the empowering title number, where the cast embraces body positivity on stage. “It’s beautiful to see so many strong, different Latina bodies owning their power,” she said.
At 51, Machado embraces the challenge of a Broadway schedule. “Sure, I wish it was 10 years ago for the stamina,” she laughed. “But I’m more grounded now than ever.”
She hopes her story inspires others to keep chasing their goals. “Dreams don’t have an expiration date,” she said. “We hear it all the time—but it’s true.”
Real Women Have Curves is now playing on Broadway. The Tony Awards air live June 8 on CBS from Radio City Music Hall.