In a recent interview on CBS Sunday Morning, Audra McDonald addressed remarks made by fellow Broadway legend Patti LuPone, who claimed in a New Yorker profile that McDonald “isn’t a friend.” McDonald, 54, expressed confusion over the alleged rift, stating she hasn’t seen LuPone in over a decade due to their busy lives and is unaware of any conflict.
“I haven’t seen her in 11 years,” McDonald said. “Life gets busy, and we just haven’t crossed paths.” She emphasized that any perceived estrangement would be a question for LuPone.
Possible Origins of the Tension
The tension appears to stem from McDonald’s support of actress Kecia Lewis, who criticized LuPone on Instagram for making noise complaints about the Alicia Keys musical “Hell’s Kitchen.” Lewis labeled LuPone’s behavior as “bullying” and “racially microaggressive,” and McDonald added supportive emojis to the post. LuPone, 76, highlighted this episode as evidence of McDonald taking sides against her.
Despite having worked together previously on productions like “Sweeney Todd” and “Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny,” LuPone refrained from praising McDonald’s work in “Gypsy,” instead deflecting with a dismissive comment.
Broadway Community Reacts
The Broadway community has largely rallied behind McDonald, especially during this high-profile Tony Awards season. Public figures including Alex Newell, Natasha Rothwell, Reneé Rapp, and Donna Murphy have voiced their support for McDonald, emphasizing her artistry and integrity.
McDonald, who was recently featured on the cover of Time as “our greatest living stage actor,” has chosen to uphold a gracious demeanor despite the controversy. The unfolding drama has only heightened anticipation for the upcoming Tonys, sparking speculation on whether the feud will be addressed during the event.
As the 78th Tony Awards approach, with McDonald nominated for her role in “Gypsy,” the theater world watches closely. Whether the alleged rift will impact the ceremony remains to be seen. For now, McDonald remains focused on her work, letting her performances speak for themselves.