Chrissy Metz, known for her role in the acclaimed television series ‘This Is Us’, has taken a significant step in her career by making her Broadway debut in the musical ‘& Juliet’. The performance officially began on June 16 at the renowned Stephen Sondheim Theatre in New York City, marking an exciting new chapter for the actress.
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In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Metz shared her journey leading up to this pivotal moment, which has been marred by feelings of anxiety and self-doubt. While the opportunity to perform on Broadway is a dream come true, she revealed that she had to confront her imposter syndrome before fully embracing her new role of Angélique.
“I feel like my anxiety really stems from wanting to do a really good job,” Metz explained. “The nerves kick in when I haven’t prepared enough to feel ready, and gaining that preparation is essential to trusting in myself.”
Throughout rehearsals, Metz began to find comfort and confidence in her abilities. “I realised I’m just having a great time because I have prepared and I do know what it is that I’m doing,” she noted. Despite the pressures, she emphasised her passion for performing and the desire for the audience to enjoy the show. “I care what people think. I want them to love it and leave feeling good,” she said.
The 45-year-old actress has developed strategies to reframe her feelings of anxiety, recognising that preparedness is key. “What I realised is that, okay, I’m prepared, I’m enjoying myself, what I’m doing is more than enough,” she stated.
Metz’s involvement in ‘& Juliet’ was announced by producers in May. The musical offers a fresh take on Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’, exploring the alternative path Juliet might have taken had she chosen life instead of tragedy. Directed by Luke Sheppard and penned by Emmy winner David West Read, the show features a lively score of pop hits by celebrated songwriter Max Martin, including tracks by artists such as Britney Spears, Katy Perry, and Kelly Clarkson.
Before this transition to Broadway, Metz had taken part in on-stage performances, including a 2017 benefit reading of Neil LaBute’s ‘Fat Pig’. While her screen career has flourished with notable roles in series like ‘American Horror Story’, she has also pursued music, having released her debut country album, ‘Prayed for This Day’, in 2019. Her love for music has been a long-standing passion, which adds a unique layer to her performance in ‘& Juliet’.
“This is a dream come true,” Metz expressed, highlighting the joy of merging her acting and musical talents. “It’s amazing to be part of a show that holds such a beautiful message with great music,” she said.
Even with her experience in the entertainment industry, experiencing Broadway has always felt like a different world for Metz. She admitted to initially struggling to believe that she would make her debut on such a prestigious stage. “The first week I was like, ‘Don’t make the costumes. Don’t buy anything, everybody. What if I can’t do this?'” she recalled with laughter.
However, Metz has now shifted her focus toward enjoying the thrill of live performances. “What’s special is how I’m feeling in that moment is what you’re getting, and that moment will never exist again,” she explained.
As for her hopes regarding audience perception, Metz expressed a desire for her long-time fans to see her comedic talent. “I hope they take away that I love to do comedy. It’s so fun, but it also carries heart and joy,” she added with a smile. “I hope they’re like, ‘Oh, she’s kind of funny.'”
Metz will be showcasing her talent in ‘& Juliet’ until September 13, as the musical approaches its milestone of 1,500 performances on June 23. Tickets for the show are currently available, and fans are encouraged to witness the actress’s remarkable journey into the world of Broadway.