Tony Award winner Billy Porter has had to step back from his Broadway duties on the advice of doctors after being diagnoses with sepsis
Billy Porter has had to step away from his appearance in Broadway’s Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club following a severe health diagnosis. The star has been confirmed to have what producers have called a “serious case” of sepsis.
Due to the ailment, the 55-year-old won’t be able to take part as he follows advice from the doctors. Thankfully, the star is expected to make a full recovery.
However, he will no longer continue in the role of the Emcee as he prioritises his well-being. The announcement was made on Sunday and has left the show needing to end its run early.
A statement in The New York Times said: “His doctors are confident that he will make a full recovery but have advised him to maintain a restful schedule these next couple of weeks.”
And ATG Productions producer Adam Speers also took the time to praise the star for his work on the production to date. He said: “It is with a heavy heart that we have made the painful decision to end our Broadway run on September 21. On behalf of all the producers, we’re so honored to have been able to bring this version of John Kander, Fred Ebb, and Joe Masteroff’s important masterpiece, Cabaret, to New York and to have opened the doors to our own Kit Kat Club for the year and a half we have been here.
“Billy was an extraordinary Emcee, bringing his signature passion and remarkable talent. We wish Billy a speedy recovery and I look forward to working with him again in the very near future.”
Billy had been scheduled to take part in the run which went until October 19. However, his early departure means it will now end ahead of schedule.
Longtime alternates Marty Lauter and David Merino will take over the Emcee role for the final shows. Marisha Wallace will continue to play Sally Bowles until the end of the run.
Billy previously described his role in Cabaret as a “gift and such a blessing”, particularly after he was turned down when he tried to audition for a 1998 revival.
Cabaret started performances on Broadway in April 2024. By the time the run finishes, there will have been 18 preview performances and 592 regular performances.
Billy’s health issue comes just weeks after Billy pulled out of performing at Manchester Pride just hours before being due to perform. At the time, illness was given as the reason.
A statement by organisers at the time read: “We’re sad to share that Billy Porter will no longer be able to perform at Mardi Gras today due to illness.
“We know many of you were looking forward to their set as we were. Get well soon Billy, love from the Manchester Pride Team.”
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