Zelig Williams, a 28-year-old Broadway dancer known for his performances in hit musicals such as “Hamilton” and “MJ: The Musical,” has been missing for more than a week. He was last seen by his mother on the morning of October 3 in Columbia, South Carolina, where he had been hosting dance workshops. A friend living in New York City received an SOS alert on their phone that same day indicating that Williams had been in a car crash. However, police found his car parked in a lot near Wateree, South Carolina, with no signs of a crash.
The disappearance of Zelig Williams has left his family, friends, and community devastated, but they are holding on to faith and hoping for his safe return. Williams’ mother, Kathy, urged anyone with information to contact the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. She also emphasized that her son requires medication and may be in a vulnerable state when found. Celebrities such as Hugh Jackman, with whom Williams traveled on tour, have taken to social media to raise awareness about his disappearance and encourage people to share information with authorities.
Caroline Lewis Jones, one of Williams’ first dance teachers and a long-time supporter of his career, described him as a special and inspiring individual. She praised his kindness, compassion, and hardworking nature as a dancer, noting that he always pushed himself to be better and inspired those around him to do the same. Jones highlighted Williams’ passion for teaching and sharing his knowledge of Broadway auditioning with students, saying that he had a profound impact on everyone he encountered.
Williams’ dedication to dance was deeply rooted in personal tragedy, as his two sisters had died in a car accident years ago. Jones explained that dance was his way of expressing himself and coping with loss, and that he poured his heart and soul into his performances and choreography. She recalled being moved to tears by the genuine joy and enthusiasm he brought to teaching children, and how he ignited a spark in them to pursue their own dreams. Jones emphasized that Williams’ presence was magnetic and that he had a gift for connecting with people on a profound level.
As days pass without any new leads on Williams’ whereabouts, his family continues to cling to hope and rely on the support of the community to help bring him home safely. The search for the missing dancer has drawn attention to the importance of mental health awareness and the need for compassion and solidarity in times of crisis. Williams’ loved ones remain steadfast in their belief that he will return, and are urging the public to share information and keep his story in the spotlight. The outpouring of love and concern from those who knew him is a testament to the impact Zelig Williams has had on the lives of many, both on and off the stage.
