#Socialites, join us in congratulating Sherri Shepherd, because sis is about to make Broadway history! The Emmy-winning comedian, actress, and talk show host is joining the cast of Disney’s “Aladdin” as the Genie, and she’s set to become the first woman EVER to play the role in a Disney-produced version of the musical. That’s right!
Disney Theatrical Group confirmed the news, announcing that Shepherd will step into the iconic blue-tinted role at the New Amsterdam Theatre starting Friday, October 16, running through Sunday, January 3, 2027. The Genie has been a showcase role since “Aladdin” first hit Broadway back in 2014, with original cast member James Monroe Iglehart even taking home a Tony for his performance. Now Shepherd is about to put her own spin on the character, and honestly, we cannot wait.
Sherri broke the news herself, and the way she did it had everybody smiling. She wrote, “Well…THE SECRET IS OUT! I’ve got a whole new kind of magic up my sleeve!” She kept the energy going too, saying, “I’m beyond excited, honored, and ready to rub the lamp and make some Broadway magic as the first woman to ever play the genie in Disney’s ALADDIN!” And of course, she topped it off with a little humor, joking, “That’s right… GENIE, BABY! Wishes do come true!”
Now, this isn’t Sherri’s first time gracing the Broadway stage, either. Back in 2013, she made her Broadway debut in Rodgers + Hammerstein’s “Cinderella,” where she played the Evil Stepmother, and that role made her the first African American actress to play the character on Broadway. So making history is nothing new for this woman cause she’s been putting in that work.
In a statement about landing the role, Shepherd got real about what it means to her. She said, “Joining Aladdin on Broadway is an absolute dream come true—and an incredible honor. The Genie is such an iconic character, and I’m beyond excited to bring my own energy, humor, heart and a little bit of magic to this role.” She also spoke on the responsibility that comes with breaking barriers, adding, “I hope audiences see themselves in this Genie and leave the theater feeling so much joy and inspired to believe in the impossible. To step on that stage as the first woman to ever play the Genie is something I don’t take lightly. I’m ready to rub the lamp, unleash some magic and have the time of my life on Broadway.”
Disney Theatrical Group also gave Sherri her flowers, praising her energy and personality as a perfect fit for the character. Managing Director Andrew Flatt and Executive Producer Anne Quart said in a joint statement, “Throughout her career, Sherri has represented delight, wit, and loving good humor, making her the perfect entertainer to play the life force that is the Genie.”
So mark your calendars, because tickets are about to move fast. Sherri Shepherd steps into the lamp on October 16, and something tells us this run is going to be one for the books. Congratulations, Sherri, you keep making history look easy!