Broadway’s ‘Chicago’: Celebrities Who Thrived and Those Who Struggled
The musical “Chicago” continues to shine on Broadway, proving to be a remarkable platform for both established and emerging celebrities. Its history is filled with notable figures who either skyrocketed to fame or struggled to leave a mark. Producers Fran and Barry Weissler have adeptly embraced a casting strategy that mixes untested stars alongside seasoned performers. This approach has revitalized the show repeatedly, ensuring its status as the longest-running show on Broadway and the second-longest in history, trailing only behind “The Phantom of the Opera.” The production has grossed an astounding $800 million to date.
Successful Celebrity Casting in “Chicago”
The latest success story comes from Whitney Leavitt, a contestant from “Dancing with the Stars.” Leavitt made headlines when she shattered box office records in March, bringing in $1.4 million in a single week. Her popularity has led to an extension of her run until May 3. Fans at the Ambassador Theatre have warmly embraced her, likening the atmosphere to that of a sports event.
- Whitney Leavitt: Star of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” and “Dancing with the Stars”; broke box office records.
Melanie Griffith was one of the first major celebrities to demonstrate that film stars could succeed in Broadway’s rigorous environment. In 2003, she took on the role of Roxie Hart, bringing her own unique charm despite her minimal stage experience.
Celebrity Challenges and Triumphs
- Melanie Griffith (2003): Featured in “Chicago”; faced challenges but garnered successful ticket sales.
- Brooke Shields: Performed in London and later on Broadway, maintaining a strong audience capacity.
- Christie Brinkley (2011): Received mixed reviews but still managed to sell tickets during her run.
While some actors thrived, others faced struggles. Tara Conner, Miss USA, rehearsed for her turn as Roxie but never performed due to controversies surrounding her title. Her preparation was ultimately in vain, with no performances brought to fruition.
Recent and Notable Casts
In more recent years, celebrities with diverse backgrounds have made their mark. Pamela Anderson made headlines during her run, bringing significant attention to the production. Her debut performance revitalized interest in the show, showcasing the effective influence of reality TV stars.
- Usher (2006): Played Billy Flynn; saw remarkable ticket sales before health issues affected his performances.
- Cuba Gooding Jr. (2018): Received negative reviews, yet sustained ticket sales.
- Ariana Madix (2024): Contributed to the strongest non-holiday week in box office history.
As “Chicago” approaches its 30th anniversary, it continues to thrive thanks to its bold casting choices. The show has attracted a variety of talents, some of whom have achieved spectacular successes while others have struggled to find their footing. This mix is what keeps audiences coming back, ensuring that the legendary musical remains a staple of Broadway.
The unique blend of celebrity involvement contributes significantly to “Chicago’s” ongoing legacy, creating a captivating experience for both new and returning theatergoers.
