Benj Pasek and Justin Paul Achieve EGOT Status With Emmy Win for ‘Only Murders in the Building’

Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, the dynamic songwriting duo known for their remarkable contributions to musical theater and film, have officially joined the elite EGOT club. This prestigious achievement, which denotes winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award, was solidified with their recent Emmy win at the 2024 Creative Arts Emmys. Their victorious song, ‘Which of the Pickwick Triplets Did It?’, was co-written with Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman for the hit Hulu series ‘Only Murders in the Building’. The award was a significant milestone for Pasek and Paul, making them the 20th and 21st individuals to achieve EGOT status.

The journey towards this monumental accomplishment began in 2017 when Pasek and Paul won an Academy Award for their song ‘City of Stars’ from the film ‘La La Land’. The same year, they also secured a Tony Award and a Grammy Award for their work on the Broadway musical ‘Dear Evan Hansen’. These accolades marked the beginning of their path to EGOT status, showcasing their versatility and talent across different entertainment mediums. Meeting during their freshman year at the University of Michigan, Pasek and Paul quickly formed a creative partnership that would lead to numerous successful projects and collaborations.

Their latest Emmy-winning song, ‘Which of the Pickwick Triplets Did It?’, is featured in Season 3, Episode 8 of ‘Only Murders in the Building’. Performed by Steve Martin’s character in a fictional Broadway musical within the show, the song is a humorous and fast-paced patter piece that added a unique dimension to the episode. The song’s complexity and wit were pivotal to its success, demonstrating Pasek and Paul’s ability to craft memorable and engaging music that enhances the storytelling of any project they undertake.

The Creative Arts Emmy Awards ceremony, held on a Sunday, was a momentous occasion for Pasek and Paul. Their win placed them in the company of other legendary EGOT winners such as Richard Rodgers, Marvin Hamlisch, and Elton John. Notably, Pasek and Paul are the first creative team to become EGOT recipients simultaneously, a testament to their collaborative synergy and mutual dedication to their craft. At 39 years old, they are tied with fellow songwriter Robert Lopez as the youngest individuals to achieve this honor, highlighting their impressive accomplishments at a relatively young age.

Pasek and Paul’s contributions to ‘Only Murders in the Building’ were part of a larger effort to bring authenticity and depth to the show’s musical elements. Collaborating with renowned Broadway songwriters Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, they crafted songs that were integral to the plot and required a high level of skill and dexterity to perform. Paul described the process of creating the show’s songs as a ‘juicy experiment’, emphasizing the collaborative nature of their work with showrunner John Hoffman and the rest of the creative team.

Their Emmy win for ‘Which of the Pickwick Triplets Did It?’ was a hard-fought victory, beating out strong contenders from shows like ‘Girls5eva’, ‘True Detective: Night Country’, ‘The Tattooist of Auschwitz’, and ‘Saturday Night Live’. The recognition from the Television Academy not only cemented their EGOT status but also underscored the quality and impact of their work on ‘Only Murders in the Building’. The show’s innovative approach to integrating musical numbers into its narrative was enhanced by Pasek and Paul’s expertise, contributing to its critical acclaim and popularity among viewers.

In addition to their work on ‘Only Murders in the Building’, Pasek and Paul have an impressive portfolio that includes songs for ‘A Christmas Story: The Musical’, ‘The Greatest Showman’, and the upcoming Disney movie ‘Snow White’. Their ability to traverse different genres and formats has made them versatile and sought-after songwriters in the entertainment industry. Their forthcoming projects, including Pharrell Williams’ film ‘Atlantis’, set for release in 2025, promise to further showcase their talent and creativity.

Their journey to achieving EGOT status has been marked by numerous challenges and triumphs. From their early days at the University of Michigan to their current status as award-winning songwriters, Pasek and Paul’s dedication to their craft has been unwavering. Their success is a testament to their hard work, talent, and the strong partnership they have built over the years. As they continue to create and innovate, their contributions to the world of music and entertainment are sure to leave a lasting legacy.

With their EGOT win, Pasek and Paul join an exclusive group of individuals who have made significant contributions to the arts. This achievement is not only a personal milestone for the duo but also a recognition of their impact on the industry. Their work has resonated with audiences worldwide, earning them a place among the most celebrated and influential songwriters of their generation. As they continue to push the boundaries of their craft, Pasek and Paul’s future endeavors are eagerly anticipated by fans and peers alike.

Their Emmy win for ‘Which of the Pickwick Triplets Did It?’ is a fitting addition to their collection of accolades, reflecting their ability to create music that is both entertaining and meaningful. The song’s success on ‘Only Murders in the Building’ highlights their skill in blending humor, complexity, and narrative depth, qualities that have become hallmarks of their work. As they look ahead to new projects and collaborations, Pasek and Paul’s EGOT status serves as a reminder of their exceptional talent and the heights they have reached in their careers.

As ‘Only Murders in the Building’ continues to captivate audiences with its blend of mystery, comedy, and music, Pasek and Paul’s contributions to the show remain a standout element. Their Emmy-winning song has become a memorable part of the series, adding to its charm and appeal. The show’s success, bolstered by the talents of its cast and creative team, is a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of innovative storytelling in television.

Pasek and Paul’s EGOT win is a historic moment in the entertainment industry, celebrating the achievements of two songwriters who have consistently pushed the boundaries of their craft. Their work on ‘Only Murders in the Building’ is just one example of their ability to create music that resonates with audiences and enhances the stories being told. As they continue to explore new opportunities and challenges, their legacy as groundbreaking songwriters is firmly established, inspiring future generations of artists to pursue their own creative dreams.