On the Tony Awards red carpet, Andrew Rannells shared with CBS that he will no longer be part of the Broadway production of the new musical “Tammy Faye.” Initially announced in February, Rannells was set to reprise his Oliver-nominated role as Jim Bakker. The musical is scheduled to debut later this year at the newly refurbished Palace Theater.
Rannells explained that the decision stemmed from contract issues. “I’m actually not doing Tammy Faye anymore. I’m very sad to say. I was very excited. I’m a huge fan of the show and unfortunately, we got into a situation where we couldn’t quite find terms that made everyone happy, which is really disappointing, which is why normally they don’t announce an actor before the contract,” he laughed before adding, “I’m not a professional, but I thought that was odd.”
Rannells was set to perform alongside Katie Brayben, who is also reprising her role. At this point, it remains unclear who will take over the role of Jim Bakker.
“Tammy Faye” features music by the legendary Elton John, lyrics by Jake Shears of Scissor Sisters, and a book by Olivier Award-winning writer James Graham. The choreography is by Lynne Page, and the direction is by Olivier Award-winner Rupert Goold.
The musical tells the story of Tammy Faye, a traveling preacher’s wife who captivated the nation with her message of hope. Set in the 1970s, the show explores how Jim Bakker and Tammy Faye used the emerging medium of cable television to build a nationwide congregation. While Tammy dazzles on screen, rivals plot behind the scenes, threatened by her popularity and her determination to lead with love.
“Tammy Faye” had its world premiere at London’s Almeida Theatre in Fall 2022, where it received rave reviews and was nominated for four Olivier Awards, including Best Musical.
Andrew Rannells and Katie Brayben were initially announced to reprise their roles for the Broadway transfer. The show will be the first Broadway musical to play at the Palace Theatre since its $2.5 billion renovation. Performances were set to begin on October 19, with an official opening on November 14.
Rannells, a two-time Tony nominee, has an impressive Broadway resume, including roles in “The Book of Mormon,” “Falsettos,” “Hairspray,” “Hamilton,” and “Gutenberg! The Musical.” He was nominated for an Olivier Award for his performance in “Tammy Faye.”
Katie Brayben, a two-time Olivier Award winner, won her first Olivier for portraying Carole King in “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.” Her other London stage credits include “King Charles III” and “Girl from the North Country.” She won her second Olivier Award for playing Tammy Faye.
The production features scenic design by Bunny Christie, costume design by Katrina Lindsay, lighting design by Neil Austin, sound design by Nick Lidster for Autograph, and video design by Finn Ross. The orchestrations are by Tom Deering and Mark Dickman, with music supervision, arrangements, and additional music by Tom Deering.
The story of Tammy Faye also inspired the 2021 movie “The Eyes of Tammy Faye,” starring Jessica Chastain and Andrew Garfield. Chastain won an Academy Award for her portrayal of Tammy Faye.
The Broadway production of “Tammy Faye” promises to be a spectacular event, with a joyful and fun score by Elton John. The show shines a light on the generous, loving, and often lonely soul behind Tammy Faye’s illustrious lashes. The divine cast was initially set to be led by Katie Brayben as Tammy Faye and Andrew Rannells as Jim Bakker.
The creative team behind “Tammy Faye” is a powerhouse of talent. Elton John, known for his work on “The Lion King,” “Aida,” and “Billy Elliot the Musical,” brings his legendary songwriting skills to the production. Jake Shears, a founding member of Scissor Sisters, provides the lyrics. James Graham, known for his work on “Dear England” and “Ink,” wrote the book. Rupert Goold, the artistic director of the Almeida Theatre, directs the production.
The choreography by Lynne Page, scenic design by Bunny Christie, costume design by Katrina Lindsay, lighting design by Neil Austin, sound design by Nick Lidster, and video design by Finn Ross all contribute to making “Tammy Faye” a must-see musical.
As the production gears up for its Broadway debut, the search for a new Jim Bakker continues. Fans of the show eagerly await further casting announcements and look forward to experiencing the magic of “Tammy Faye” on the Broadway stage.
