Taraji P. Henson, the renowned Empire star and Oscar nominee, is set to make her much-anticipated Broadway debut in a new production of August Wilson’s classic play, “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone.” This news comes with the exciting announcement that the talented Cedric “The Entertainer” will join her on stage. The revival, directed by the esteemed Debbie Allen, is scheduled to open at a Shubert theatre in New York City in the spring of 2026.
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In this upcoming production, Henson, aged 54, will portray the character of Bertha Holly, described as the kind and hospitable matriarch of a boarding house in Pittsburgh. Cedric, aged 61, will star opposite her as Seth, Bertha’s husband. Directed by the award-winning Debbie Allen, who is receiving an honorary Oscar this year at the Governors Awards, the play promises to bring a fresh perspective to Wilson’s poignant work.
Brian Anthony Moreland, the producer behind successful Broadway productions such as “The Piano Lesson” and “Othello,” expressed his deep respect for August Wilson’s legacy. With the visionary direction of Debbie Allen and the exceptional cast assembled for this production, audiences can expect a performance that resonates profoundly and leaves a lasting impact on all who witness it.
“Joe Turner’s Come and Gone,” the second play in Wilson’s acclaimed American Century Cycle, is set in 1911 and follows the journey of Herald Loomis, a man grappling with the haunting effects of enslavement as he seeks his long-lost wife and struggles to reclaim his identity after years of captivity. Against the backdrop of the Holly home and the supportive community surrounding it, themes of identity, history, and spiritual awakening are explored.
For Cedric, this revival marks a return to the Broadway stage after his last appearance in “American Buffalo” in 2008, showcasing his versatility and talent as a performer. Meanwhile, Henson joins a growing list of Hollywood stars venturing into the world of Broadway, reflecting the industry’s resurgence following the challenges posed by the global pandemic.
As Broadway continues to attract big-name stars seeking to challenge themselves in new artistic ventures, the anticipation surrounding the casting for “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone,” along with ticket information and production details, is steadily building. The announcement of additional cast members and key production dates is eagerly awaited by theatre enthusiasts and fans of these esteemed actors.
With a storied history and a legacy of powerful storytelling, August Wilson’s work remains as relevant and impactful today as it was when first introduced to audiences. The upcoming revival of “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone” promises to honour that legacy while offering a fresh interpretation that resonates with contemporary audiences.
In a time where live theatre is experiencing a resurgence, the collaboration between Taraji P. Henson, Cedric “The Entertainer,” and Debbie Allen in this Broadway revival signifies a celebration of talent, artistry, and the enduring power of storytelling on the stage. As the production gears up for its grand opening in the spring of 2026, Broadway enthusiasts can look forward to a compelling and thought-provoking theatrical experience that will captivate audiences and critics alike.