Joy Woods Pushes Past the Pressures of Being Broadway’s First Black “Gypsy”: ‘I’m Just the Next’ (Exclusive)

Joy Woods Makes History as Broadway’s First Black Gypsy

At just 24 years old, Joy Woods is already leaving an indelible mark on the Broadway stage. With a series of successful roles under her belt, including performances in “Six,” “The Notebook,” and Off-Broadway’s “Little Shop of Horrors,” Woods has now made history as the first Black actress to take on the role of Louise in the Broadway production of “Gypsy” in the revival directed by George C. Wolfe.

The character of Louise undergoes a remarkable transformation throughout the iconic Jule Styne-Stephen Sondheim musical, based on the memoirs of burlesque entertainer Gypsy Rose Lee. From a timid wallflower struggling in her family’s Vaudeville act to a confident and commanding stripper, Louise’s journey is a testament to strength and resilience, all while navigating the demands of her formidable mother, Rose, played by Audra McDonald.

Despite the attention and accolades surrounding her groundbreaking casting, Woods remains focused on the storytelling rather than the historic nature of her role. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, she humbly expresses that she sees herself as “just the next person to tell this story,” aiming to inspire young Black women to see themselves represented on stage and to pursue their own dreams.

“I’m grateful to be somebody who makes people who look like me — who are younger and wondering what it is to see themselves as part of this world — see what I’m doing as something that they could do,” Woods shares. “This story is really, truly a thing of generational trauma. So I’m showing the experience and what the intricacies and idiosyncrasies about being a Black woman with a Black mother.”

Woods’ performance in “Gypsy” has garnered critical acclaim and earned her a 2025 Tony Award nomination. Her approach to portraying Louise involved building the character from a place of authenticity and vulnerability, allowing the role to evolve organically as she delved deeper into Louise’s emotional journey.

Working alongside the legendary Audra McDonald, who portrays her on-stage mother, has been a transformative experience for Woods. McDonald’s mentorship and support have helped her navigate the complex dynamics of their characters’ relationship, both on and off the stage, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among the cast.

As Woods reflects on her rapid rise in the theatre world, she acknowledges the importance of taking moments to pause, reflect, and celebrate her accomplishments. Despite the demands of her busy schedule, she is learning to embrace the process and find balance between pushing herself to excel and allowing herself time to appreciate how far she has come.

With her unwavering confidence and dedication to her craft, Joy Woods is not only making history but also paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse Broadway landscape. As she continues to break barriers and inspire audiences with her remarkable talent, she remains a shining example of resilience, passion, and the power of representation in the arts.