Celebrities Who’ve Taken on the Role of Roxie Hart in ‘Chicago’
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Numerous well-known celebrities have graced the stage as Roxie Hart in the hit musical ‘Chicago’, each bringing their unique flair to the iconic character. The role of Roxie, a fame-driven housewife turned murderer, has been portrayed by a diverse range of talents over the years. From reality TV stars to supermodels and A-list Hollywood actors, the character of Roxie Hart continues to captivate audiences with her complex and compelling story.
The Broadway debut of ‘Chicago’ in 1975 saw Gwen Verdon originate the role of Roxie Hart, setting the stage for a long line of talented actresses to follow in her footsteps. Known for its sharp choreography, dark humor, and memorable songs, ‘Chicago’ has become a staple in the world of musical theatre. The allure of playing Roxie Hart has attracted a range of big names to take on the challenge of bringing this character to life on stage.
One such star is Mira Sorvino, who made her Broadway debut as Roxie in September 2025. The Oscar-winning actress shared that playing Roxie was a childhood dream come true for her, highlighting the enduring appeal of the character and the musical. Sorvino’s portrayal brought a fresh perspective to the role, adding to the rich tapestry of interpretations that have graced the Broadway stage over the years.
Model Ashley Graham also stepped into Roxie’s shoes in April 2025, fulfilling a long-held aspiration to perform on Broadway. Graham’s journey from envisioning the role on her vision board to actually playing Roxie highlights the power of determination and hard work in achieving one’s dreams. Her performance was met with critical acclaim and showcased her versatility as a performer beyond the world of fashion.
Reality TV star Erika Girardi, known for her appearances on ‘The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’, returned to the role of Roxie in 2025 after a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Girardi spoke about the sense of completion and excitement she felt in reprising the role, underscoring the enduring appeal of ‘Chicago’ and the character of Roxie Hart to performers from diverse backgrounds.
The list of celebrities who have played Roxie Hart is as diverse as it is impressive. From Grammy-winning singers like Brandy to iconic supermodels like Christie Brinkley, each actress has brought their unique interpretation to the role, adding their own nuances and touches to the character. The character of Roxie Hart continues to resonate with audiences, drawing them into her world of ambition, intrigue, and ultimately, redemption.
The upcoming debut of Whitney Leavitt as Roxie in February 2026 marks the latest chapter in the legacy of this iconic character. As a reality TV star with a background in dance, Leavitt brings a fresh perspective and energy to the role, promising an exciting new take on Roxie Hart for audiences to enjoy. Her performance will undoubtedly add to the rich tapestry of interpretations that have defined the character over the years.
In conclusion, the role of Roxie Hart in ‘Chicago’ has been a coveted and challenging part that has attracted a diverse array of talents to the Broadway stage. From A-list actors to reality TV stars, each performer has left their mark on the character, breathing new life into the timeless story of fame, ambition, and redemption. With Whitney Leavitt set to make her debut as Roxie, the legacy of this iconic character continues to evolve and inspire audiences around the world.