After the two-time Tony Award winner reveals that he tests positive for the breakthrough case, the long-awaited revival announces that all performances are canceled until January 1.
- Dec 29, 2021
AceShowbiz - Hugh Jackman has tested positive for COVID-19. "The Music Man" leading man announced that he contracted the virus just days after his co-star in the revival, Sutton Foster, missed her performance following her coronavirus diagnosis.
"I just wanted you to hear from me that I tested positive this morning for COVID," the 53-year-old vaccinated actor said in an Instagram video he shared on his Instagram page on Tuesday, December 28. He went on detailing his symptoms, noting that it's "like a cold."
Hugh explained, "I have a scratchy throat and a bit of a runny nose, but I'm fine." The "Logan" star then assured his fans that he'll be back on stage soon, saying, "And I'm just going to do everything I can to get better, A.S.A.P., and as soon as I'm cleared, I'll be back on stage." In the caption, the star added, "Sending love for a happy and healthy new year."
Shortly after Hugh posted his video, "The Music Man" announced on Instagram that all performances would be canceled through Saturday, January 1. Tickets can be refunded or exchanged where they were purchased. Performances will resume on Sunday and Hugh will return to the show on January 6.
A few days earlier, Sutton, who plays the lead role of Marian Paroo in the long-awaited revival, unveiled that she missed her performance on Thursday, December 23 as she got COVID. Then on Friday, both Sutton and Hugh celebrated the company's understudies and swings who helped the show go on despite her positive test result.
In her Instagram Story, Sutton thanked company member and swing Kathy Voytko for stepping in for her and helping prevent the production. "Grateful to Kathy and our incredible company. Grateful to all swings and understudies who keep all the shows going, now and always," the "Younger" actress wrote.
Hugh also celebrated the understudies and swings of "The Music Man" in a speech given post-show. "All over Broadway, this is a time we've never known. We're in our fourth preview. We're all just sort of learning," so said "The Greatest Showman" actor.
"Swings and understudies have not had a chance to learn. They watch from the corner of a room while we rehearse," Hugh added. "While we get to practice over and over again, they just get to watch and write notes. And then, five hours before our performances, they're told, 'You're on.' "
Hugh, who plays Harold Hill in "The Music Man", brought attention to Kathy's talent and dedication. "They all know 10 roles. Kathy, when she turned up at work, could have had any of eight roles, and it happened to be the leading lady," the two-time Tony Award winner praised Kathy. He concluded his speech as saying, "The courage, the brilliance, the dedication, the talent of the swings, the understudies, they are the bedrock of Broadway."
