Sherri Shepherd is making history on Broadway. The beloved talk show host will become the first woman to play the Genie in Disney’s “Aladdin.” Her limited engagement runs from October 16 to January 3.
“I’ve taken my family, my nieces and nephews, to see this musical,” Shepherd told The Associated Press. “I never dreamed that I would one day be a part of the ‘Aladdin’ family. So I am beyond thrilled.”
The role is a dream come true for Shepherd. She brings decades of entertainment experience to the stage. Now she is ready to make magic in a whole new way.
A Groundbreaking Moment for Broadway and Representation
Shepherd’s casting marks a significant milestone for the long-running musical. The Genie character was originally voiced by Robin Williams in the 1992 animated film. Will Smith later brought the character to life in the 2019 live-action version.
“To step on that stage as the first woman to ever play the Genie is something I don’t take lightly,” Shepherd said in a statement. “I’m ready to rub the lamp, unleash some magic, and have the time of my life on Broadway.”
This achievement follows a legendary legacy of artists. James Monroe Iglehart won a Tony Award for the role in 2014. Now Shepherd adds her own unique chapter to that story.
Inspiring Young Girls to Dream Beyond Limits
Shepherd sees her role as more than entertainment. She wants young audience members to expand their imaginations. Specifically, she hopes to show little girls that they can be anything.
“I want the children to see the possibilities,” Shepherd said. “I want the little girls to say, ‘Oh yeah. I know I used to dress as a princess, but I could be the Genie. I can make wishes come true. Maybe I could be president.’”
She draws inspiration from her own childhood. Shepherd remembers watching Stephanie Mills in “The Wiz” as a young girl. That experience showed her what was possible. Now she wants to create that same feeling for a new generation.
Preparation and Hard Work Behind the Magic
Shepherd is not taking this opportunity lightly. She is currently taking dance and singing lessons. Additionally, she is practicing her upcoming signature song, “Friend Like Me.”
The role requires tremendous energy and stamina. Shepherd acknowledged that this path is not easy. However, she embraces challenges with courage.
“My whole career has never been the easy way,” she explained. “My whole life is, ‘If it scares you, then you say yes.’ And this is no different because it’s completely out of my comfort zone.”
A Support System of Broadway Veterans
Shepherd has reached out to her Broadway friends for guidance. She is calling on experienced performers for advice and support. This community has welcomed her with open arms.
“I’m talking to my friends, Kristin Chenoweth; Steven Boyer, who was in ‘Kimberly Akimbo;’ Wayne Brady, anybody I know who has been on Broadway,” Shepherd revealed. “I am calling them up going, ‘Help me, help me, help me’ and getting a lot of advice.”
This will be Shepherd’s second appearance on Broadway. In 2014, she portrayed the wicked stepmother in “Cinderella.” Her theater experience also includes off-Broadway productions like “Love, Loss and What I Wore” and “Celebrity Autobiography: In Their Own Words.”
A Career Built on Versatility and Courage
Shepherd’s career spans television, film, theater, and publishing. She is a former co-host of “The View.” She also hosted her own daytime talk show, “Sherri,” which concluded its four-season run in May.
Her acting credits include shows like “30 Rock” and “The Sex Lives of College Girls.” She will soon appear in the Lifetime movie “Angel in the Rubble.” That film premieres on September 12.
Shepherd is also an author and podcaster. Her willingness to try new things defines her career. This Broadway role continues that fearless tradition.
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