When the revival of Funny Girl announced that Beanie Feldstein was going to play Fanny Brice on Broadway, there were a lot of people who wondered why Lea Michele didn’t get the role.
Ever since Michele sang Don’t Rain on My Parade on Glee, it seemed like it was her role to lose, and she lost it.
Then yesterday, Feldstein announced that she was leaving the show earlier than her September departure because the musical was changing directions. After her announcement, the show said they would reveal her replacement today.
Who is it? It is Lea Michele. “A dream come true is an understatement,” the actress wrote. “I’m so incredibly honored to join this amazing cast and production and return to the stage playing Fanny Brice on Broadway. See you September 6th.”
Hopefully, her dream won’t turn into a nightmare. I think if she doesn’t play to sell-out crowds, I wouldn’t be surprised if the show closes during her run. Yikes.
When it comes to who will be playing Brice between August 1st and September 5th, that person is Julie Benko. Benko has been getting a lot of praise in the role. Unlike the person who was hired to play it.
