Over 500 Broadway Pros Sign Open Letter Against Patti LuPone

In a shocking turn of events that has rippled through the Broadway community, over 500 professionals have signed an open letter demanding accountability for the actions of renowned actress Patti LuPone. This unprecedented move highlights the ongoing issues of respect and conduct within the theater world, particularly regarding how powerful figures treat their peers.

The catalyst for this letter came following LuPone’s comments about fellow Broadway actresses Kecia Lewis and Audra McDonald, which many in the community deemed derogatory and unjust. LuPone, famous for her powerful voice and commanding stage presence, has not shied away from controversy in her career. However, the language she used in a recent interview has crossed a line for many in the theater community. The open letter, signed by notable figures such as Wendell Pierce, states that LuPone’s remarks were not only “degrading and misogynistic” but also represented a “blatant act of racialized disrespect.”

This situation ignited when LuPone referred to Lewis derogatorily as a “bitch” and commented that McDonald wasn’t a “friend.” These remarks appear to stem from an Instagram video in which Lewis critiqued a previous comment LuPone made about her musical “Hell’s Kitchen.” LuPone branded the show “too loud,” and when Lewis defended herself, citing the racial implications of LuPone’s critique, things escalated quickly. LuPone’s comments dismissing Lewis’s experience and qualifications as a Broadway veteran further compounded the issue, drawing ire from the theater community.

The open letter emphasizes that it is not aimed at “shaming or isolating” LuPone but rather about fostering a healthier community culture. Signatories want to address what they describe as a consistent failure to hold influential individuals accountable for harmful behaviors. They argue that this is not just about one incident but rather an ongoing problem in the community that allows disrespect and bullying to continue unchecked.

The letter calls upon the American Theatre Wing and the Broadway League to take immediate action, including barring LuPone from participation in the upcoming Tony Awards unless she undergoes comprehensive anti-bias or restorative justice training. While some may see this as an extreme measure, supporters of the letter argue that participation in high-profile events like the Tonys should reflect the values of the community.

Interestingly, while LuPone is not nominated for a Tony this year, McDonald is, for her portrayal of Momma Rose in “Gypsy”—a role that previously earned LuPone her second Tony in 2008. This added layer of competition between the two long-established performers makes the dispute all the more riveting, as both have contributed significantly to Broadway’s legacy while also being vocal about their experiences.

The Broadway community has always had its share of rivalries and feuds, but the involvement of over 500 artists in this letter reflects a call for change that cannot be overlooked. It ignites a crucial conversation about power dynamics, respect, and accountability that extends beyond just this incident. It challenges us to consider how we treat one another in the arts and what standards should be upheld in spaces that require collaboration, vulnerability, and mutual support.

As discussions ensue about how the American Theatre Wing and the Broadway League will address this situation, one thing remains clear. The Broadway community is not merely a platform for individual talent but a collective that thrives on respect and accountability. The impact of this letter serves as a reminder that the narrative is not solely about the performances we see on stage; it’s also about how the artists behind those performances interact with one another.

As we await further developments, the question looms: how will the Broadway community move forward from this incident? Will it lead to transformative change, or will it simply fade into the background like so many past controversies? As viewers, fans, and fellow artists, we can only hope for a resolution that aligns with the values of respect and integrity, enriching the theater world for future generations.

The Broadway landscape is undoubtedly evolving, and the voices of its professionals are becoming more unified. With over 500 signatures calling for change, the message is loud and clear: actions have consequences, and everyone—regardless of stature—must be held to the same standard of conduct. The path ahead may be challenging, but it is necessary for fostering a healthier and more inclusive environment within the arts.

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