Andrew Rannells, a two-time Tony Award nominee, has announced his departure from the Broadway transfer of the Elton John musical “Tammy Faye.” The actor, who was set to star alongside two-time Olivier Award winner Katie Brayben, revealed the news during the 77th Annual Tony Awards on June 16.
“I’m a huge fan of the show, but unfortunately, we couldn’t find terms that made everyone happy,” Rannells told CBS News.
Rannells was slated to reprise his Olivier-nominated role as Jim Bakker, the husband of Tammy Faye, portrayed by Brayben. The musical had its world premiere at London’s Almeida Theatre in 2022, earning four Olivier Award nominations and winning two, including one for Brayben. The Broadway transfer, featuring Rannells and Brayben, was announced in March.
Directed by Rupert Goold, with a book by James Graham and lyrics by Jake Shears, “Tammy Faye” is set to begin performances at the Palace Theatre on October 19, with an official opening on November 14. The show will be the first Broadway musical to grace the stage of the Palace Theatre following its $2.5 billion renovation.
Rannells has a distinguished Broadway career, having received Tony nominations for his roles in “The Book of Mormon” and “Falsettos.” His other Broadway credits include “Hairspray,” “Hamilton,” and most recently, “Gutenberg! The Musical.”
Born Andrew Scott Rannells on August 23, 1978, in Omaha, Nebraska, he began his acting career in community theater and voice acting. He moved to New York City in 1997 to study theater at Marymount Manhattan College before transitioning to full-time auditions and landing roles.
Rannells made his Broadway debut in 2004 as Link Larkin in “Hairspray” and later played Bob Gaudio in “Jersey Boys.” His breakout role came in 2011 when he originated the role of Elder Kevin Price in “The Book of Mormon,” earning a Tony nomination and a Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album.
In addition to his stage work, Rannells has made a name for himself in television, starring in the NBC sitcom “The New Normal” and playing the recurring role of Elijah in HBO’s “Girls.” He has also appeared in Showtime’s “Black Monday” and has numerous voice acting credits, including roles in Netflix’s “Big Mouth” and Amazon Prime’s “Invincible.”
Rannells’ departure from “Tammy Faye” leaves a significant gap in the production, but the show is expected to proceed as planned. Fans of the actor will undoubtedly miss his presence in the musical, but his extensive body of work ensures that he will continue to be a prominent figure in both theater and television.
