Oprah Winfrey Shades Patti LuPone Over Broadway Controversy at 2025 Tonys

At the 2025 Tony Awards, Oprah Winfrey subtly addressed the controversy surrounding Broadway star Patti LuPone while presenting the Best Actress in a Musical award. Winfrey remarked on the year's theatrical achievements and noted the "lotta talking going on," referencing Beyoncé's song "American Requiem," a line understood as a nod to the recent drama. The controversy stems from LuPone's disparaging comments about fellow Broadway performers Audra McDonald and Kecia Lewis in a New Yorker interview, which led to widespread backlash and an open letter signed by over 500 Broadway artists. LuPone apologized for her remarks, expressing deep regret and a desire to make amends with those offended. McDonald, nominated in the same category, was present and appeared unaffected by the tension, while LuPone did not attend the ceremony. Oprah's comment was widely praised on social media for its wit and indirect call-out of LuPone's behavior.