Jonathan Larson was an American composer and playwright best known for creating the groundbreaking musical Rent. Born on February 4, 1960, in White Plains, New York, he showed an early interest in music and theater. Larson's work often explored themes of love, loss, and the struggles of artists in urban settings. Tragically, Larson passed away on January 25, 1996, just before Rent premiered on Broadway. His innovative approach to musical theater and his ability to address social issues resonated with audiences, earning him several awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and multiple Tony Awards.