Tony Award winner Billy Porter is withdrawing from the Broadway revival of Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club after being diagnosed with a serious case of sepsis, producers announced.
Porter, who took over the role of Emcee in July 2025 following his acclaimed performance in the London production, is expected to make a full recovery. However, doctors have advised him to maintain a restful schedule in the coming weeks.
Originally slated to run through October 19, the show will now close on Sunday, September 21, 2025 at the August Wilson Theatre.
In the final two weeks of performances, the role of the Emcee will be carried by alternates Marty Lauter and David Merino, who have been part of the production’s roster of alternates. Meanwhile, Marisha Wallace, who plays Sally Bowles, will remain with the show through its closing.
Producer Adam Speers released a statement expressing regret at the early closing and praise for Porter’s performance:
“Billy was an extraordinary Emcee, bringing his signature passion and remarkable talent… We wish Billy a speedy recovery and I look forward to working with him again in the very near future.”
The production of Cabaret, adapted from John Van Druten’s play I Am a Camera and Christopher Isherwood’s Goodbye to Berlin, opened on Broadway in April 2024 after a successful West End run. Under Rebecca Frecknall’s direction, the immersive staging at the Kit Kat Club (at the renovated August Wilson Theatre) earned attention for both its design and cast, including Porter and Wallace as part of the first all–Black lead cast in a commercial Broadway production of Cabaret.
