Patti LuPone has openly declared her estrangement from fellow Broadway star Audra McDonald, stating that McDonald is “not a friend.” This revelation came during a recent interview for a New Yorker profile focused on LuPone’s upcoming role in …And Just Like That. While she didn’t delve into the specifics of their falling out, LuPone hinted that the issues have been longstanding.
The tension appears to have escalated following a conflict with Kecia Lewis, another Broadway veteran who criticized LuPone for her remarks about the loudness of an Alicia Keys musical, labeling them as “bullying” and “racially microaggressive.” In defending herself, LuPone retaliated by questioning Lewis’ status as a veteran performer, highlighting the disparity in their Broadway credits.
Interestingly, LuPone’s commentary on McDonald’s performance in Gypsy, for which McDonald received her record-breaking 11th Tony nomination, was notably curt. When asked about it, LuPone simply stared into silence before making a remark about the weather, suggesting a strained relationship.
LuPone and McDonald have shared the stage in the past, notably in productions like Sweeney Todd and the LA Opera’s Mahagonny, which makes the current rift particularly surprising for fans of the theater community.
As the Broadway landscape continues to change, with new productions and reimaginings, the dynamics between these iconic performers reflect not just personal issues but also the evolving complexities of performance art in today’s cultural climate. Each artist brings their own unique contribution to the stage, and despite personal disagreements, they continue to shape the future of Broadway.
In a bright note, the ongoing evolution of musical theater is highlighted by McDonald’s groundbreaking role in Gypsy, marking a significant moment in casting history. It’s hopeful to see how both artists continue to inspire and influence this vibrant industry.