Lea Michele has tested positive for COVID-19 once again. Upon learning of the diagnosis, the former star of “Glee” was forced to skip several performances of “Funny Girl”.
Revealing the news about the actress’ health issue was the Broadway show’s official Instagram account. “Unfortunately, Lea Michele has tested positive for Covid,” so read the Tuesday, May 16 announcement.
“She will be out of the show this week and will return on Tuesday, May 23rd. Tuesday – Thursday & Saturday – Sunday, the role of Fanny will be played by Julie Benko,” it added. “Friday, May 19th, the role of Fanny will be played by Ephie Aardema.”
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This is not the first time Lea, who plays Fanny Brice in the production, had to miss “Funny Girl” performances due to COVID-19. It previously happened back in September 2022.
“In following production protocol I cannot return to the theater for 10 days,” she divulged at that time on Instagram Story. “Thankfully staying home today and catching this early protected so many members of our company from being exposed (sic).”
Lea’s stint as Fanny Brice in “Funny Girl” is due to end in September. However, she’s already planning to tread the boards in New York again, though she’s staying tight-lipped on what she’ll be doing.
“I already know what it is,” Lea told Variety, suggesting she could be starring in a revival of a production. She teased, “You know it. It’s very different musically.”
[via]