Emmy-winning actress, podcaster, comedienne, producer, and New York Times bestselling author Sherri Shepherd is set to play the gender-bending role of the Genie in the musical “Aladdin” on Broadway.
The role marks the first time a woman has ever played the Genie on the Broadway stage.
The Daytime Emmy winner played the Evil Stepmother in Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella on Broadway in 2014.
“Well…THE SECRET IS OUT! I’ve got a whole new kind of magic up my sleeve!” Sherri wrote on Instagram on Tuesday. “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!”
She added:
“That’s right… GENIE, BABY! Wishes do come true! From comedy clubs to film & tv screens, to talk shows to the Broadway stage… what a journey! I cannot wait to bring my own brand of joy, laughter, BIG personality and a little bit of sass to this role.
“Get your tickets to see me grant you all 3 wishes at sherrishepherd.com. Now… somebody tell me where I can get a magic carpet!”
The play is an adaptation of the 1992 animated film, which featured the late Robin Williams as the Genie.
Sherri will headline the musical at Manhattan’s New Amsterdam Theatre from Oct. 16 to Jan. 3, 2027.