Patti LuPone Apologizes to Broadway Colleagues After Industry Backlash

Patti LuPone issued a public apology following backlash over disparaging remarks she made about fellow Broadway actresses Kecia Lewis and Audra McDonald in a New Yorker interview. LuPone expressed regret for her "demeaning and disrespectful" comments, particularly toward Lewis, and acknowledged that her flippant and emotional responses were inappropriate and hurtful to the theatre community. The controversy stemmed from a noise complaint involving a show LuPone was in and the Alicia Keys musical "Hell's Kitchen," which stars Lewis, leading to accusations of microaggressions and a broader call for accountability from over 500 Broadway professionals in an open letter. Audra McDonald, who was also criticized by LuPone, responded by stating she was unaware of any rift and that the issues should be addressed directly with LuPone. In her apology, LuPone recognized the importance of unity and respect in the theatre community and committed to making amends personally with Lewis and McDonald. The incident highlights ongoing tensions in Broadway regarding respect, professional conduct, and the challenges faced by artists advocating for inclusion and recognition.