Get ready, theater lovers, because a Broadway sensation is about to get even more fabulous! John Cameron Mitchell, the brilliant mind and original star behind Hedwig and the Angry Inch, is stepping into the spotlight in Oh, Mary! This isn't just any casting announcement; it's a theatrical event!
Mitchell will be taking on the role of Mary Todd Lincoln in the award-winning comedy play. Starting February 3rd, 2026, and running through April 12th, 2026, he'll grace the stage at the Lyceum Theatre. This limited engagement promises to be a must-see for fans of Mitchell and anyone who appreciates a good dose of humor with their history.
Oh, Mary!, directed by Tony Award winner Sam Pinkleton, offers a hilariously unique take on Mary Todd Lincoln. The play follows her journey as a repressed, alcoholic woman with a burning desire to become a cabaret star, all unfolding in the weeks leading up to her husband's assassination. Imagine the historical drama, but with a comedic twist!
Mitchell is taking over the role from Jinkx Monsoon, who will star from January 8th to February 1st, and previously, Jane Krakowski, who departed on January 4th.
Mitchell himself is excited, stating, “Cole Escola and Sam Pinkleton are the wild horses that dragged me back to drag and I couldn't be happier!” He humorously added that as the “most mature Mary yet, my days are filled with working the StairMaster™, mainlining Ozempic® and mastering my Brilliant Dialogue©. ‘Line?!’ Thank you, Cole, may I do you proud mangling your classic!”
Director Sam Pinkleton chimed in, saying, “Welcoming John into this cast feels both delicious and somehow inevitable.” He acknowledged Mitchell's impact on the world of performance, calling him a “queer trailblazer, cultural icon, brilliant actor — and, most importantly for his new role, a giant idiot.”
The current cast also features Cheyenne Jackson as Mary’s Teacher, John-Andrew Morrison as Mary’s Husband, Jenn Harris as Mary's Chaperone, and Tony Macht as Mary's Husband's Assistant.
But here's where it gets controversial... While the play is comedic, it tackles a sensitive historical figure. Do you think it's possible to find humor in such a subject? What do you think about the casting choices? Share your thoughts in the comments!
