Tony-winning Broadway legend Patti LuPone has ignited a firestorm following her inflammatory comments in a recent New Yorker interview, where she referred to actress Kecia Lewis as a “b**ch” and dismissed Audra McDonald as “not a friend.” The remarks have drawn fierce criticism across the theater world, with hundreds of performers uniting to denounce LuPone’s statements as “degrading and misogynistic,” citing them as examples of racialized disrespect and systemic microaggressions in the industry.
The collective letter, signed by members of Broadway and other theater communities, called her behavior “bullying” and “harassment,” and urged her removal from key events, including the upcoming Tony Awards.
In response, LuPone issued a public apology, expressing regret for her “flippant and emotional responses,” particularly toward Lewis. She stated her desire to personally apologize to both Lewis and McDonald, acknowledging that her behavior ran “counter to what we hold dear in this community.”
Despite the controversy, LuPone has received support from some notable peers. Mia Farrow, her co-star in The Roommate, praised their decades-long friendship and positive working relationship, calling LuPone the “goddess of Broadway.” Farrow’s remarks came in a Deadline interview where she acknowledged the interview but sidestepped the controversy.
“Abbott Elementary” star and Broadway alum Sheryl Lee Ralph took a more cautious stance, urging compassion but also tact: “Inner thoughts don’t always have to be outer thoughts,” Ralph advised, without outright defending the remarks.
Meanwhile, conservative commentator Ella Whelan defended LuPone’s fiery persona, framing her behavior as “diva privilege” rather than racism, arguing that the Broadway veteran’s bluntness is part of her long-standing public identity.
As the Tony Awards approach, all eyes are on whether LuPone will make an appearance—and how the theater world, known for its passion and politics, will continue to grapple with this high-profile controversy.
Swifteradio.com
