Billy Crystal is being honoured for his career and Broadway return as his new solo show 860 continues previews in New York ahead of its official opening later this month.
The Tony and Emmy Award winner was recognized as one of the inaugural PaleyFest Award recipients at PaleyFest NY, which held a special conversation with Crystal on October 12 at the Paley Museum in Manhattan.
The event came as Crystal prepares to open 860 at the Imperial Theatre on October 21.
The production began previews on October 1 and is scheduled to continue through January 3, 2027.
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Billy Crystal turns loss into a Broadway story
860 takes its name from the address of the Pacific Palisades home Crystal and his wife, Janice, lost in the devastating wildfires in January 2025.
Written and performed by Crystal, the show uses the loss of the house as a starting point for a broader reflection on family, friendship, love, luck and grief.
The production’s official description says Crystal revisits the memories connected to the home and considers how humour can help people endure difficult experiences.
Rather than presenting a conventional concert or standup set, 860 is structured as an intimate one-person theatrical performance.
Crystal is the sole performer, with the production directed by Scott Ellis.
The show runs for approximately one hour and 40 minutes without an intermission, according to the production’s ticket information.
What the PaleyFest honour recognizes
PaleyFest NY named Crystal among the recipients of its inaugural PaleyFest Awards, which recognize influential performers, television programs and creative work across entertainment.
The Paley Center described Crystal’s selection as a celebration of his return to Broadway and his wider career as a comedian, actor, writer, producer, director and television host.
Crystal’s PaleyFest appearance also placed the Broadway production in the context of a career that has moved between stage performance, film, television and awards-show hosting.
His previous one-man Broadway production, 700 Sundays, earned him a Tony Award.
The earlier show focused heavily on his family and his relationship with his father, Jack Crystal.
When 860 opens and how long it runs
860 is playing at the Imperial Theatre at 249 West 45th Street in New York City.
The engagement is scheduled to remain at the theatre until January 3, 2027, making it a limited Broadway run rather than an open-ended production.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| First preview | October 1, 2026 |
| PaleyFest NY conversation | October 12, 2026 |
| Broadway opening night | October 21, 2026 |
| Scheduled closing date | January 3, 2027 |
Performances are scheduled throughout October, November and December, with the production expected to remain a major part of Broadway’s fall and holiday theatre calendar.
What comes next for Billy Crystal
The immediate milestone is the October 21 opening night, when the production is expected to move from previews into its formal Broadway engagement.
As with other preview performances, changes to pacing, staging or individual moments may still occur before opening night.
For Crystal, the production represents both a return to a form that has already brought him major recognition and a new way to tell a deeply personal story about rebuilding after loss.
Its central subject is specific to Crystal’s experience, but the themes of memory, home and resilience give the show a wider emotional frame for audiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Billy Crystal’s new Broadway show 860 about?
860 is a solo show about Crystal’s memories, family and experiences after the Pacific Palisades wildfires destroyed his home.
When does 860 officially open on Broadway?
860 is scheduled for its Broadway opening night on October 21, 2026, after beginning previews on October 1.
Where is 860 playing?
The show is playing at the Imperial Theatre at 249 West 45th Street in New York City.
How long will Billy Crystal’s 860 run?
The limited engagement is scheduled to continue through January 3, 2027.
What did Billy Crystal receive at PaleyFest NY?
Crystal was named one of the inaugural PaleyFest Award recipients and took part in a special career conversation at the Paley Museum on October 12, 2026.
Fact-Checked: Key dates, production details and the PaleyFest recognition were checked against the official 860 and Paley Center sources.
Disclaimer: Broadway schedules and performance details may change, so readers should confirm availability with the official production website before making plans.