Billy Porter Withdraws from Broadway’s “Cabaret ”Due to ‘Serious Case’ of Sepsis, Forcing Production to Close

Tony Award-winning actor Billy Porter has been forced to exit Broadway’s revival of Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club due to a ‘serious case’ of sepsis, a life-threatening condition triggered by the body’s improper response to an infection. This unforeseen development has led to the closure of the production at the August Wilson Theatre in New York City on Sunday, September 21.

The announcement of Porter’s withdrawal from the production came as a shock to many, as he was originally scheduled to continue starring as the Emcee until October 19. Producers explained that while Porter’s doctors are optimistic about his full recovery, they have advised him to prioritize rest in the upcoming weeks. In response to Porter’s health concerns, producers had to make the difficult decision to bring the show to an early close.

The Emcee role, originally portrayed by Billy Porter, will now be shared between Marty Lauter and David Merino, the production’s established alternates. This arrangement will ensure the continuity of performances until the production’s final show date. Marisha Wallace, who joined Cabaret in July alongside Porter, will remain with the show until its closure.

Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club, based on John Van Druten’s 1951 play I Am a Camera, tells the story of American writer Clifford Bradshaw’s experiences in Berlin during the Nazi regime. The musical, featuring iconic songs by Kander & Ebb such as “Willkommen” and “Cabaret,” has been a longstanding success on Broadway and on screen, captivating audiences with its compelling narrative and timeless music.

Porter, a Tony Award winner, expressed his enthusiasm for his role in Cabaret and the significance of being part of the first all-black leads in this historic production. His commitment to using art as a form of expression and activism shone through as he shared his gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of this groundbreaking show.

The impact of Porter’s departure on the production and the theatre community as a whole underscores the unpredictable nature of live theatre and the resilience required to navigate unexpected challenges. Despite the closure of Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club, the legacy of this production will endure, leaving a lasting impression on those who had the privilege to experience its magic on stage.

As Broadway bids farewell to Cabaret, fans and theatre enthusiasts are left to reflect on the profound influence of this production and the indelible mark left by the talented cast and crew. The show’s early closure serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of live performances and the dedication required to bring stories to life on the stage.