
Patti LuPone Issues Apology Following Backlash Over Controversial Comments
2025-05-31
Author: Olivia
Patti LuPone's Surprising Apology Takes Center Stage
In a shocking turn of events for the Broadway diva, Patti LuPone has issued an apology after facing backlash over her recent comments in a New Yorker profile.
Here's a quick recap: In the profile, LuPone was challenged about her conflict with fellow performer Kecia Lewis, who accused her of being "racially microaggressive" in a social media letter last year. The tension arose after LuPone criticized the loud performances from the Hell's Kitchen theater, which shared a wall with her own show.
LuPone's response, however, was far from graceful. She dismissed Lewis' experience, stating, "She calls herself a veteran? Let’s find out how many Broadway shows Kecia Lewis has done. I’ve done 31. Don’t call yourself a vet, bitch!" This comment alone ignited outrage among her peers.
The situation escalated when the interviewer mentioned that Broadway superstar Audra McDonald had come to Lewis' defense online. LuPone's reply was equally cutting: "Exactly, and I thought, 'You should know better.' That’s typical of Audra." Her dismissive nature took a further nosedive when she reacted to McDonald's recent performance, which garnered her an unprecedented 11th Tony nomination, opting for an awkward stare out the window instead of acknowledging McDonald's achievement.
The backlash was swift and intense. Over 500 Broadway artists signed an open letter denouncing LuPone's remarks as "racialized disrespect," calling for her to be disinvited from the upcoming Tony Awards.
Realizing the seriousness of her missteps, LuPone took to social media to express her regret. In an official statement, she reflected on her previous outlook: "For as long as I have worked in the theatre, I have spoken my mind and never apologized. That is changing today."
LuPone went on to specifically address her comments about Kecia Lewis, acknowledging their disrespect and expressing her deep remorse. She stated: "I regret my flippant and emotional responses during this interview which were inappropriate, and I am devastated that my behavior has offended others."
Moreover, LuPone aligned herself with the sentiments expressed in the open letter, affirming the importance of support and inclusivity in the theater community. "I made a mistake, I take full responsibility for it, and I am committed to making this right. Our entire theatre community deserves better," she concluded, expressing a desire to personally apologize to both Kecia Lewis and Audra McDonald.
This unexpected shift in LuPone's stance highlights the growing demand for accountability in the arts community and serves as a reminder of the bond actors share.