Sherri Shepherd Joins Broadway's Aladdin As Genie

Talk show host Sherri Shepherd is set to make a limited Broadway appearance as the Genie in Disney's musical production of Aladdin. Her engagement is scheduled to commence on Friday, October 16. This marks a significant return to the Broadway stage for Shepherd, whose previous and sole Broadway performance to date occurred in 2014. In that earlier role, she portrayed the Evil Stepmother in the musical "Rodgers + Hammerstein's Cinderella." Shepherd's upcoming portrayal of the Genie in "Aladdin" will be for a limited run, the exact duration of which has not been specified in initial reports. The musical "Aladdin" is based on the beloved 1992 animated film of the same name and features music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman, Tim Rice, and Chad Beguelin, and a book by Chad Beguelin. The production has been a popular fixture on Broadway since its premiere in March 2014 at the New Amsterdam Theatre. Shepherd, widely recognized for her work as a comedian, actress, and television personality, has hosted her own daytime talk show, "Sherri," since September 2022. Prior to that, she was a co-host on "The View" from 2007 to 2014. Her foray into musical theatre, while limited, demonstrates a versatility that extends beyond her television career. The role of the Genie is iconic, famously voiced by Robin Williams in the animated film and previously portrayed on Broadway by actors such as James Monroe Iglehart, who won a Tony Award for his performance. The casting of Shepherd brings a new dynamic to the character for this limited engagement. The New Amsterdam Theatre, where "Aladdin" is currently playing, is one of Broadway's historic venues, having opened in 1903. The production of "Aladdin" has been praised for its elaborate costumes, set design, and energetic performances, bringing the magic of Agrabah to life for audiences. Shepherd's participation is expected to draw significant attention to the musical during her tenure. Her previous experience in "Cinderella" involved a role that was central to the narrative's conflict, whereas the Genie in "Aladdin" is a benevolent, magical figure who guides the protagonist. This contrast highlights Shepherd's adaptability as a performer. The announcement of her casting was made by Disney Theatrical Productions, the entity responsible for mounting the Broadway show. Further details regarding the specific dates of Shepherd's performances within the limited run are anticipated to be released closer to the October 16 start date.