Disney’s Aladdin On Broadway Is Getting Its First Female Genie

One of Broadway’s biggest Disney shows is getting ready to make history this autumn, with a familiar face from American television taking on one of the musical’s most famous roles for a special limited run.

Emmy-winning talk show host and actor Sherri Shepherd is joining the Broadway company of Aladdin, stepping into the role of the Genie from 16 October 2026 through 3 January 2027.

It’s a milestone for the Disney musical, as Shepherd will become the first woman to play the Genie on Broadway.

Current Genie Caleb A. Barnett will remain with the company as the standby throughout her limited engagement.

Shepherd described joining the musical as “an absolute dream come true” and “an incredible honor,” saying she plans to bring her own “energy, humor, heart” to the character while hoping audiences will see something of themselves in her version of the Genie.

She also spoke about the importance of making Broadway history, saying: “To step on that stage as the first woman to ever play the Genie is something I don’t take lightly,” before adding that she is ready to “rub the lamp, unleash some magic” during her time with the show.

Aladdin recently marked its 12th birthday on Broadway and is currently the 14th longest-running show in the history of The Great White Way.