Kristin Chenoweth Prepares for a Broadway Comeback
The petite diva is stepping into the most demanding role of her career in The Queen of Versailles. This portrayal reveals a side of Kristin Chenoweth unlike the bubbly, cheerful Glinda we know. Instead, it shows a tougher, more determined woman—someone who has fought hard to reach the peak of show business. This Chenoweth appears more resolute and somewhat weary.
A Challenging Role and Production
Taking on a new musical is a tremendous effort, especially when Chenoweth is not only the lead but also the producer and main box office draw. Her character diverges sharply from past roles, portraying Jackie Siegel, a shopaholic one-percenter. Siegel is the wife of David Siegel, the time-share magnate, portrayed by F. Murray Abraham.
About the Musical
This musical is an adaptation of the 2012 documentary The Queen of Versailles, with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, famous for Wicked. The work is a distinctive Trump-era satire, an unusual choice for Broadway.
Recent Controversies
The production’s pre-opening phase was marked by heightened tension. Chenoweth sparked controversy after commenting on the assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk on September 10 at Utah Valley University. Under Kirk’s final Instagram post, she wrote:
“I’m. Didn’t always agree but appreciated some perspectives. What a heartbreak..”
She added a broken-heart emoji to express her feelings.
This rare PR difficulty added to the pressure surrounding the upcoming Broadway show.
Author’s Summary
Kristin Chenoweth embraces a gritty new role and faces both personal and public challenges as she returns to Broadway with a bold, politically charged musical.