Illness Ends Usher’s Chicago Run

Allie @ Gone Hollywood | Friday, October 13, 2006

Singer Usher made a spectacular Broadway debut in the musical Chicago. He was cast as the lawyer, Billy Flynn (played by Richard Gere in the movie version). Unfortunately, the singer’s participation was cut short, due to a severe case of strep throat.

Said show producer Barry Weissler: “Usher made a spectacular Broadway debut, bringing a great dedication, work ethic and his amazing talent to the show. We all hope that he might return at some point for the many fans that were unable to see his wonderful performance as Billy Flynn.”

Weissler added, “Usher has found a new home on Broadway and is welcome back anytime.”

A case of strep throat has brought an abrupt end to Usher’s run in the Broadway revival of the musical Chicago, which saw a spike in ticket sales after he joined the cast.

The 27-year-old R&B star – who was playing shyster lawyer Billy Flynn for a two-month engagement – took ill on Oct. 6 and has not performed in the show since, his mother and manager, Jonnetta Patton, tells the Associated Press. He was due to give his farewell performance Saturday night.

The New York Post reports that Usher’s absence has cost the production an estimated $400,000 in refunds to disappointed ticket buyers.

“Usher has had an amazing time on Broadway and loved every minute of performing on stage with the entire cast of Chicago,” Patton told the AP. “He expresses his sincere apologies to all of his fans who purchased tickets to see him in Chicago this final week and appreciates all of their love and support.” source

Illness Ends Usher’s Chicago Run

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