Krewe of Orpheus in New Orleans announced this week that Emmy-winning actor Noah Wyle has been chosen as the 2026 celebrity monarch for the Krewe of Orpheus during Lundi Gras. The iconic actor, best known for his role on ER and now leading the HBO medical drama The Pitt, will reign over one of Mardi Gras’s most musically themed super krewes as it parades under the theme “All the World’s a Stage.”
Why Noah Wyle?
With a career spanning decades and a creative reach that extends to writing, directing, and producing, Wyle brings gravitas and authenticity to the role. His recent work on The Pitt—which he co-writes and executive produces—has earned critical acclaim, and his storied past on ER makes him a familiar face to many.
What to Expect During the Parade
- The 2026 Krewe of Orpheus Parade will roll on Monday, February 16, at 6:00 p.m. along its traditional Uptown New Orleans route.
- With over 35 floats and 1,500 krewe members, this is set to be a grand celebration.
- Five past Orpheus monarchs—Joey Fatone, Will Forte, Jimmi Simpson, Jonathan Silverman, and Jennifer Finnigan—will join Wyle on the Captain’s Galleon Float with the krewe’s longtime captain, Sonny Borey.
Krewe of Orpheus History
The Krewe of Orpheus was founded in 1993 by Harry Connick Jr., his father Harry Connick Sr., and Captain Sonny Borey. Music is at its heart, and each Lundi Gras celebration is as much about song, rhythm, and storytelling as it is about pageantry.
The Krewe got its name from the mortal Orpheus, son of the god Apollo and the muse Calliope. The story of Orpheus is about the power of music in both this world and the next. Legend has it that Apollo presented Orpheus with a lyre, which he played with perfection. His music inspired the most virtuous love and opened the hearts of all who heard it.
This year’s “All the World’s a Stage” theme feels especially fitting with Wyle at the helm—a seasoned performer whose life has intertwined deeply with both music and acting. And for revelers, Wyle’s reign promises not just star power but a reminder of what makes Mardi Gras magical: the blending of creativity, tradition, and community.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Wyle, a music lover, or a Mardi Gras devotee, the 2026 Orpheus Parade is shaping up to be a milestone event. Mark your calendars—and prepare for a night of sparkle, tambourines, and unforgettable floats with one of Mardi Gras’s most stunning parades.