Emmy-winning talk show host, comedian, and actress Sherri Shepherd is trading the talk-show stage for the bright lights of Broadway!
Best known for her time as a co-host on The View and as the host of her own nationally syndicated talk show, Sherri, Shepherd is set to join the Broadway cast of Disney’s Aladdin next month. She’ll take on one of the production’s most beloved roles the hilarious and larger-than-life Genie for a limited engagement running October 16, 2026, through January 3, 2027.
During Shepherd’s run, current Genie Caleb A. Barnett will remain with the production as the Genie standby. The casting also marks a major milestone: Shepherd will become the first woman to portray the Genie on Broadway, a role traditionally played by men. James Monroe Iglehart originated the role on Broadway and won a Tony Award for his performance.
Shepherd shared her excitement about the historic opportunity, calling her Broadway debut as Genie an “absolute dream come true” and an incredible honor. She says she’s looking forward to bringing her own humor, heart, energy and a little magic to the iconic character while inspiring audiences to “believe in the impossible.”
Disney Theatrical Group Managing Director Andrew Flatt and Executive Producer Anne Quart also praised Shepherd’s comedic talent and infectious personality, saying her authentic energy will bring a fresh perspective to the beloved character.
This won’t be Shepherd’s first time making Broadway history. She previously became the first African American actress to portray the Evil Stepmother in Cinderella. Her theater credits also include the Off-Broadway productions Love, Loss, and What I Wore and My First Ex-Husband.
Beyond the stage, Shepherd has built an impressive television and film résumé, with credits including 30 Rock, Friends, Everybody Loves Raymond, The Jamie Foxx Show, HARLEM, Mr. Iglesias, Trial & Error and Sex Lives of College Girls. Her film work includes Precious, Beauty Shop, Ride Along 2, Brian Banks and Tyler Perry’s STRAW.
Shepherd’s upcoming Lifetime movie, Angel in the Rubble, is also set to premiere September 12.
Now, she’s ready to rub the lamp, unleash some Broadway magic and give audiences a Genie unlike any they’ve seen before!
