Anthony Ramos, known for his role as both John Laurens and Alexander Hamilton’s son in the original Broadway cast of “Hamilton,” recently recounted a memorable incident involving pop icon Madonna during a segment on “Watch What Happens Live!” Ramos referred to Madonna as “the most terrifying” audience member, recalling how she kept her iPad in front of her face throughout the performance. He humorously expressed his disbelief, suggesting that if she wasn’t enjoying the show, she could simply leave.
This isn’t the first time Madonna has faced criticism from “Hamilton” cast members over her perceived lack of decorum during performances. In 2015, creator Lin-Manuel Miranda shared his frustration in a now-deleted tweet, hinting that a celebrity had been texting throughout Act 2, which sparked speculation about Madonna. At the time, her publicist denied the accusations, stating that Madonna had been invited backstage on multiple occasions and had been texting only during the fundraising pitch.
Jonathan Groff, who played King George III, also weighed in on the matter, describing how the light from Madonna’s phone illuminated her face during the show and commenting on her absence from backstage due to her distractions.
Madonna’s relationship with texting during performances has drawn flak in the past, including a notorious incident in 2013 when she was reported to have texted during a screening of “12 Years a Slave,” leading to her being banned from a movie theater for not adhering to etiquette.
Despite the controversies, there have been moments where Madonna’s emotional engagement with films has been noted, with sources stating she appeared visibly moved during “12 Years a Slave.” However, her reputation in theater circles continues to be marred by criticisms, drawing parallels to a Broadway narrative filled with unexpected twists.
It is evident that while Madonna is celebrated for her musical legacy, her behavior in creative spaces often raises eyebrows, showcasing a contrast between her iconic status and her live performance etiquette. In the ever-evolving world of Broadway and celebrity culture, each incident serves as a reminder that even the most prominent figures must navigate the expectations of their audience, both on and off the stage. This ongoing dialogue highlights the importance of respect and engagement in live performances, reinforcing the idea that every audience member plays a part in the theater experience.