Laurie Hernandez, the celebrated Olympic gymnast with two medals to her name, is set to make her Broadway debut in the popular musical “& Juliet.” Beginning March 17, 2026, at the Sondheim Theatre, she will take on the featured dance role of ‘Charmion’ and perform until June 14, 2026.
Hernandez gained fame as a part of the U.S. Women’s Gymnastics team known as the “Final Five,” which achieved remarkable success at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Summer Olympics. The team won gold, and she personally earned a silver medal on the Balance Beam. Since her Olympic triumphs, Hernandez has authored two impactful books, garnered a Sports Emmy Award for her commentary during the 2024 Summer Olympics, and showcased her dancing prowess by winning Season 23 of “Dancing with the Stars.”
Expressing her excitement about this new venture, Hernandez remarked, “I’ve always been such a Broadway fan, so to make my Broadway debut in & Juliet is a dream come true. The show is so much fun to watch as an audience member, and I can’t wait to join this incredible cast and actually perform in the show each night.”
Hernandez’s accomplishments extend beyond sports; she is also a two-time New York Times bestselling author. Her books, “I Got This: To Gold and Beyond” and the children’s illustrated work “She’s Got This,” focus on themes of confidence, resilience, and self-belief. She has been recognized for her positive influence and Latina heritage, with Mattel introducing a Laurie Hernandez “Shero” Barbie in her honor. As the first U.S.-born Latina to be part of the Olympic gymnastics team since 1984, her influence in sports and popular culture remains significant.
In addition to her gymnastics and literary endeavors, Hernandez has gained recognition as a gymnastics analyst for NBC, providing commentary during major Olympic events including Tokyo and the upcoming Paris 2024 Games. Her insightful coverage has been well-received by audiences and critics alike. A graduate of NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts with a focus on drama and creative writing, she continues to work on developing a television short series.
Hernandez is also deeply committed to advocacy, serving as a UNICEF USA Ambassador since 2023, where she champions mental health and children’s rights. Her journey reflects not only her athletic excellence but also her dedication to making a positive impact in the community. With her Broadway debut on the horizon, Hernandez’s star continues to rise, inspiring countless fans along the way.