Full Breakdown
Whitney Leavitt's Broadway Debut as Roxie Hart in Chicago
2/5/2026, 12:43:04 AM
Whitney Leavitt Takes Center Stage
Whitney Leavitt, a prominent figure from Hulu's *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives* and a semi-finalist on *Dancing with the Stars*, made her Broadway debut on February 2, 2023, portraying Roxie Hart in the acclaimed musical *Chicago*. This performance marked her first professional theater role and is part of a six-week engagement at New York City's Ambassador Theatre, concluding on March 15, 2023. Leavitt's portrayal received a standing ovation, with audience members expressing their enthusiasm for her performance.
Support from Co-Stars and Family
Leavitt was supported by several cast members from *Mormon Wives*, including Mayci Neeley, Jessi Ngatikaura, Mikayla Matthews, Miranda McWhorter, Layla Taylor, and Jen Affleck, who attended the performance and the subsequent afterparty at Glass House Tavern. Her husband, Conner Leavitt, was also present, leading the audience in a standing ovation. Leavitt appeared emotional during her curtain call, receiving flowers from the cast and sharing a heartfelt moment with her supporters.
Notable Absence: Demi Engemann
Despite the strong turnout from her co-stars, Demi Engemann was notably absent from the opening night festivities. Engemann, who has been a controversial figure in previous seasons of *Mormon Wives*, has faced speculation regarding her return for the show's fourth season, which premieres on March 12, 2023. Although she did not attend, Engemann expressed her support for Leavitt via social media, posting a photo with a message wishing her well.
Audience Reaction and Future Implications
Leavitt's performance included a humorous nod to her Mormon background during the *Cell Block Tango*, which elicited laughter and applause from the audience. The afterparty was filmed for the upcoming season of *Mormon Wives*, suggesting that Leavitt's Broadway debut will be featured in the show. Leavitt has expressed her excitement about sharing her journey, including her experiences on *Dancing with the Stars*, with her fans.
Official Statements & Responses
Leavitt described her debut as "surreal," reflecting on her journey and the fulfillment of her aspirations. She stated, "I feel like everything that I’ve been manifesting feels more within reach." This sentiment captures the significance of her Broadway debut not only as a career milestone but also as a personal achievement.
What's Next for Whitney Leavitt
As Leavitt continues her run in *Chicago*, anticipation builds for the fourth season of *Mormon Wives*, where her Broadway experience may be explored further. The combination of her reality television background and newfound theatrical acclaim positions her as a multifaceted performer in the entertainment industry.
Leavitt's debut in *Chicago* not only highlights her talent but also reflects the evolving dynamics within her cast and the broader implications for her career trajectory.
