Patti LuPone Apologizes After Broadway Backlash Over Comments About Fellow Performers

Broadway star Patti LuPone's recent interview with "The New Yorker" sparked controversy after she made derogatory remarks about fellow performers Kecia Lewis and Audra McDonald. Over 700 members of the Broadway community signed an open letter condemning LuPone's comments, calling for her disinvitation from the Tony Awards. In response to the backlash, LuPone issued a public apology on social media, stating, "I am deeply sorry for the words I used during The New Yorker interview, particularly about Kecia Lewis, which were demeaning and disrespectful." When asked about the situation, Audra McDonald responded, "If there's a rift between us, I don't know what it is. I haven't seen her in about 11 years." McDonald's response highlighted the lack of personal connection between the two performers, suggesting that the controversy stemmed from a miscommunication or misunderstanding. LuPone's apology, while seemingly sincere, underscores the importance of mindful communication within the Broadway community and the impact of public statements on professional relationships.