The world of Broadway is set to witness exciting changes as two key roles in the hit musical adaptation of *The Great Gatsby* see fresh talent stepping in. China Anne McClain, renowned for her role in the *Descendants* franchise, is poised to make her Broadway debut as Daisy Buchanan on 3 August. She will be succeeding Eva Noblezada, who will give her final performance in the role on 26 July.
Ryan McCartan, best known for his part in *Liv and Maddie*, is making a highly anticipated return to the role of Jay Gatsby. He will reprise this iconic character starting 27 July, following a successful tenure in the role during previous productions. Reeve Carney, who currently portrays Gatsby, will conclude his run on the same day as Noblezada, marking a significant transition for the musical.
In addition to this notable cast change, Samantha Pauly, who originated the character of Jordan Baker, will also be leaving the production. She will be replaced by Naturi Naughton, who expressed her enthusiasm for returning to Broadway after two decades. “Twenty years ago, I made my Broadway debut in *Hairspray*, and now I get to come back to the theatre as a new woman with new money as the fabulous Jordan Baker!” Naughton remarked, looking forward to the role and the vibrant experience of engaging with a live audience.
*The Great Gatsby* is a musical adaptation derived from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic 1925 novel, which revolves around the enigmatic millionaire Jay Gatsby and his enduring love for Daisy Buchanan, all set against the backdrop of the Roaring Twenties. The current iteration features music by Jason Howland and Nathan Tysen, while the book is penned by Kait Kerrigan, with direction under the guidance of Marc Bruni. The production initially premiered at the Paper Mill Playhouse in New Jersey, where it broke records to become the highest-grossing show in the theatre’s history.
The pathway to Broadway has been a remarkable journey for *The Great Gatsby*, which transitioned from its origins in New Jersey to the bright lights of Broadway in April 2024. The musical has captivated audiences, amassing over 900 performances and selling more than a million tickets.
Ryan McCartan brings a wealth of experience to the role of Gatsby. Having previously played the character in 2025, he has also dazzled audiences in other Broadway productions, including *Frozen* and *Wicked*. His diverse background includes Off-Broadway performances in shows like *Heathers* and *Scotland, PA*. McCartan’s return to the character is highly anticipated, adding further intrigue to the production.
China Anne McClain, at 27, is a multifaceted performer known for her work in *Daddy’s Little Girls*, *Black Lightning*, and her musical group Thriii, alongside her sisters. Her casting as Daisy Buchanan is a significant milestone in her career, marking her Broadway debut and promising a fresh interpretation of the beloved character.
Alongside the lead roles, the show features a dynamic cast, including Corbin Bleu as Nick Carraway, John Behlmann as Tom Buchanan, and Linedy Genao as Myrtle Wilson, among others. The ensemble, comprising numerous talents, contributes to a rich theatrical experience, bringing the world of Fitzgerald’s novel to life on stage.
Tickets for *The Great Gatsby* are now available, offering theatre-goers the chance to witness the musical’s continued success and the fresh energy brought by its new cast members. As the production prepares to welcome McClain and McCartan to their respective roles, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be an electrifying performance at the legendary Broadway Theatre. The evocative allure of the Roaring Twenties, paired with fresh talent, ensures that audiences are in for a treat as *The Great Gatsby* continues to captivate and entertain.