Full Breakdown
Maya Rudolph to Make Broadway Debut in "Oh, Mary!"
3/13/2026, 11:10:00 AM
Overview of the Production
Maya Rudolph, the acclaimed six-time Emmy Award winner, is set to make her Broadway debut in the hit comedy "Oh, Mary!" She will portray Mary Todd Lincoln, beginning her eight-week engagement at the Lyceum Theatre on April 28, 2026, and concluding on June 20, 2026. The play, created by Cole Escola, reimagines Mary Todd Lincoln as a chaotic, hard-drinking woman aspiring to be a cabaret star during the tumultuous days leading up to her husband Abraham Lincoln's assassination.
Background and Context
"Oh, Mary!" opened on Broadway on July 11, 2024, and quickly became a sensation, breaking box office records and grossing over $1 million in a single week—an unprecedented achievement for the Lyceum Theatre in its 121-year history. The production has since extended its run through January 3, 2027, and is also being staged in the West End, with a North American tour set to launch in Hartford, Connecticut, in September 2026.
Key Figures and Cast
Rudolph takes over the role from John Cameron Mitchell, who will conclude his run on April 26, 2026. The role of Mary Todd Lincoln has previously been portrayed by notable actors including Jinkx Monsoon, Jane Krakowski, Tituss Burgess, and Betty Gilpin. Cole Escola, who originated the role and won a Tony Award for Best Actor, has expressed that the play was written with a humorous and irreverent take on historical events, emphasizing a fictionalized narrative rather than strict adherence to historical accuracy.
Maya Rudolph's Perspective
In her announcement, Rudolph expressed her excitement about joining the production, stating, “Ever since I was a little girl I have dreamed of being Cole Escola. Oh, Mary! is the funniest play I have ever seen, and I have seen a lot of plays, you’d be surprised. It’s such an honor to play the role of Mary, especially after so many iconic Marys have come before me. So making my Broadway debut in the role of a lifetime—as a miserable, suffocated, alcoholic woman—is a real dream come true.” She also noted the opportunity to bring her unique interpretation to the character, saying, “Every Mary is different, so now there’s this opportunity to bring myself to the role.”
Official Statements and Responses
The production's director, Sam Pinkleton, who won a Tony Award for his work on the show, has highlighted the comedic brilliance of "Oh, Mary!" and its ability to resonate with audiences. The play has received critical acclaim, being described as "without a doubt, the funniest comedy on Broadway right now."
Why It Matters
Maya Rudolph's Broadway debut is significant not only for her career but also for the ongoing success of "Oh, Mary!" The play's unique blend of humor and historical parody has captivated audiences, making it a noteworthy addition to contemporary Broadway. The extended run and upcoming tour indicate a strong demand for the production, solidifying its place in the theatrical landscape.
What's Next
As Rudolph prepares for her debut, the production continues to draw attention, with tickets for "Oh, Mary!" now on sale through January 3, 2027. The anticipation surrounding her performance suggests that it will be a highlight of the Broadway season.
