Broadway star Patti LuPone is widely recognized for her candid and unapologetic nature. However, in a surprising turn of events, she has publicly apologized for her recent comments. In an Instagram post on Saturday, LuPone stated, “For as long as I have worked in the theatre, I have spoken my mind and never apologized. That is changing today.” This statement comes in light of growing backlash from the Broadway community.
LuPone’s apology follows a significant controversy just a week before the 2025 Tony Awards. Over 500 Broadway performers signed an open letter condemning her remarks about fellow actors Kecia Lewis and Audra McDonald. The letter, addressed to the American Theatre Wing and the Broadway League, asserted that LuPone should be barred from attending the upcoming Tony Awards on June 8 due to her derogatory comments.
The letter emphasized, “Individuals, including Patti LuPone, who use their platform to publicly demean, harass, or disparage fellow artists—particularly with racial, gendered, or otherwise violent language—should not be welcomed at industry events.” This strong statement reflects the sentiment within the Broadway community regarding respect and accountability among artists.
LuPone's remarks were linked to her experience while performing in the Broadway play "The Roommate." This production was located adjacent to the musical "Hell’s Kitchen," inspired by the life of iconic artist Alicia Keys. After LuPone voiced her concerns about noise levels to the theater owner, a change was made, and she subsequently sent flowers to the cast and crew of "Hell’s Kitchen."
Kecia Lewis, who won a Tony for Best Featured Actress in a Musical last year for her role in "Hell’s Kitchen," publicly criticized LuPone’s behavior. In a video posted on Instagram, Lewis described LuPone's complaint as “bullying” and labeled her actions as “racially microaggressive.” She stated, “You owe us an apology, not flowers,” addressing LuPone directly.
In a follow-up to the controversy, the New Yorker interviewed LuPone, during which she referred to Lewis as a “b----” and claimed that McDonald, who holds the record for the most Tony wins with six, was “not a friend.” This prompted further discussions about the dynamics within the Broadway community.
When CBS's Gayle King asked McDonald about the rift, she expressed uncertainty, stating, “I mean, if there’s a rift between us, I don’t know what it is. That’s something that you’d have to ask Patti about.” McDonald, who is also nominated for a Tony this year for her role in the Broadway revival of "Gypsy," reflected on her long-standing professional relationship with LuPone, noting they hadn’t seen each other in about 11 years.
In her Instagram apology, LuPone addressed her comments toward Lewis and expressed her desire to apologize in person. “I am deeply sorry for the words I used during The New Yorker interview, particularly about Kecia Lewis, which were demeaning and disrespectful,” she stated. LuPone further admitted, “I regret my flippant and emotional responses during this interview, which were inappropriate, and I am devastated that my behavior has offended others.”
Moreover, LuPone acknowledged the open letter from the 500 Broadway performers, affirming, “I wholeheartedly agree with everything that was written in the open letter shared yesterday.” She emphasized the importance of support and inclusivity within the theatre community, declaring, “I made a mistake, I take full responsibility for it, and I am committed to making this right. Our entire theatre community deserves better.”
Patti LuPone's recent apology marks a significant moment in the Broadway community, highlighting the importance of respect and accountability among artists. As the 2025 Tony Awards approach, the focus will likely remain on the broader implications of her statements and the ongoing dialogue about the treatment of performers in the industry. This incident serves as a reminder that words hold power, and fostering a supportive environment is essential for everyone in the theatre world.
