Angelica Ross Will Be First Transgender Star Of Broadway's 'Chicago' This Fall

Angelica Ross is formally Broadway-bound.

The “Pose” star will be part of the forged of the smash musical “Chicago” within the lead function of Roxie Hart, the present’s producers confirmed Thursday. She’ll change into the present’s first transgender main girl.

Ross, whose appearing credit additionally embrace “American Horror Story,” will start performances on Sept. 12. Her eight-week run is about to conclude on Nov. 6.

Her casting drew an enthusiastic response from followers and fellow celebrities on-line.

“The identify on everyone’s lips is gonna be… Angelica Ross!” actor Wilson Cruz tweeted, referencing one of many songs from the present. “Congratulations, love!”

Added “MacGyver” star Alexandra Gray: “The ladies are on Broadway! Put us all over the place!! We're HERE! Congrats, sis.”

"Pose" and "American Horror Story" star Angelica Ross will be part of the forged of Broadway's "Chicago" for an eight-week run this fall.

Taylor Hill through Getty Pictures

Anthony Allen Ramos, who's GLAAD’s vice chairman of communications and expertise, additionally praised the information in an e mail. Describing the function of Roxie as “probably the most recognizable, iconic, and beloved characters within the historical past of Broadway,” he added. “A real expertise like Angelica Ross will delight audiences together with her spectacular appearing, singing and efficiency abilities.”

Ross herself supplied a extra subdued response, noting on Twitter that her pleasure was tempered by information that WNBA star Brittney Griner had been discovered responsible of drug possession in Russia.

At the present time is filled with blended emotions for me! I wish to have fun being on Broadway, however I don’t really feel like celebrating with #BrittneyGriner sentenced to 9 years in jail. This world is tousled. She doesn’t deserve this.

— A N G E L I C A (@angelicaross) August 4, 2022

Gwen Verdon originated the function of Roxie when “Chicago” premiered on Broadway in 1975. When the present revival opened in 1996, the “merry murderess” turned aspiring showgirl was portrayed by Ann Reinking.

The 2002 film adaptation of the musical starred Renée Zellweger as Roxie. And earlier this 12 months, Pamela Anderson made the leap from “Baywatch” to Broadway when she took over the function, successful rave critiques from critics.

Transgender illustration in New York’s theater business has been progressively bettering lately. In 2018, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” veteran Peppermint grew to become the primary trans performer to originate a principal function on Broadway when she appeared within the Go-Go’s jukebox musical, “Head Over Heels.”

And earlier this 12 months, L Morgan Lee obtained rapturous acclaim ― and a history-making Tony nomination ― for her efficiency in “A Unusual Loop.”