Taraji P. Henson Says She and Cedric the Entertainer Will ‘Find Some Funny Bits’ in Dramatic Broadway Play (Exclusive)

Taraji P. Henson and Cedric the Entertainer are set to bring a mix of comedy and drama to the stage in a new production of August Wilson’s ‘Joe Turner’s Come and Gone’, which is scheduled to hit Broadway in spring 2026. The play follows the story of a man grappling with the trauma of enslavement after years in captivity. Despite the heavy subject matter, the duo is enthusiastic about infusing the production with some light-hearted moments. In an exclusive interview, Henson expressed her excitement about finding ‘funny bits’ in the play, showcasing their versatility as performers.

The upcoming play is the second installment in August Wilson’s American Century Cycle, a renowned series of plays that delve into the African-American experience throughout the 20th century. ‘Joe Turner’s Come and Gone’ originally premiered on Broadway in 1988 and has since been acclaimed for its poignant portrayal of identity, history, and spirituality. Henson is set to portray Bertha Holly, the strong matriarch of a boarding house in Pittsburgh, while Cedric will take on the role of her husband Seth, promising a dynamic performance that captures the essence of Wilson’s work.

Directed by the talented Debbie Allen, the revival of ‘Joe Turner’s Come and Gone’ marks a significant milestone for both Henson and Cedric. For Cedric, it is a return to the Broadway stage after his last appearance in ‘American Buffalo’ in 2008, while Henson will be making her Broadway debut. The pairing of these two seasoned entertainers is expected to bring a fresh perspective to Wilson’s classic play, under the guidance of producer Brian Anthony Moreland, known for his successful productions in the theatre world.

Henson and Cedric’s collaboration extends beyond the stage, as the duo has shared screen time in previous projects like ‘Talk to Me’, ‘Larry Crowne’, and ‘Madly Madagascar’. Their on-screen chemistry and mutual respect for each other’s talent have laid a solid foundation for their upcoming theatrical endeavours. Henson commended Cedric’s suitability for the role of Seth, expressing her confidence in his ability to breathe life into the character and enhance the overall narrative of the play.

As the production gears up for its Broadway debut, audiences can anticipate a thoughtful exploration of themes such as resilience, heritage, and the search for one’s place in the world. With Henson and Cedric at the helm, ‘Joe Turner’s Come and Gone’ promises to be a powerful and entertaining theatrical experience that resonates with viewers on a profound level. Stay tuned for further updates on additional casting details, ticket information, and official production dates as the eagerly awaited play prepares to captivate theatregoers in the heart of New York City.

In conclusion, the collaboration between Taraji P. Henson and Cedric the Entertainer in the forthcoming Broadway production of ‘Joe Turner’s Come and Gone’ symbolizes a meeting of talent, passion, and creativity. Their shared commitment to exploring the complexities of the human experience through the medium of theatre is set to enrich the theatrical landscape and provide audiences with a memorable and thought-provoking performance. As the stage is set for this exciting new chapter in their careers, fans and theatre enthusiasts alike can look forward to witnessing the magic that unfolds when two powerhouse performers unite to bring a timeless story to life on Broadway.