Wayne Brady and Taye Diggs Set to Electrify Broadway in Moulin Rouge! The Musical
Superstar talents Wayne Brady and Taye Diggs are set to electrify Broadway in Moulin Rouge! The Musical, starting July 2025.
Broadway’s acclaimed Moulin Rouge! The Musical is set for a star-studded refresh, welcoming Emmy-winning performer Wayne Brady and screen-to-stage veteran Taye Diggs to its illustrious cast in July 2025. This highly anticipated move brings two powerhouse talents to the Al Hirschfeld Theatre for limited engagements, promising a fresh dynamic to the beloved production.
A New Era for the Al Hirschfeld Stage
Brady and Diggs are poised to debut their roles on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at Broadway’s Al Hirschfeld Theatre. Brady will step into the shoes of Harold Zidler, the charismatic proprietor of the Moulin Rouge, while Diggs will take on the imposing character of The Duke of Monroth. Their engagements are for a limited time, with Diggs performing through Sunday, September 28, and Brady continuing through Sunday, November 9.
A recently released video offers a first glimpse of the duo in costume, building anticipation for their upcoming performances. This strategic casting decision signals a renewed focus on drawing top-tier talent to sustain the musical’s Broadway prominence.
Passing the Torch: Cast Departures and New Leads
The arrival of Brady and Diggs coincides with several significant cast changes. Current performers Austin and Andy Karl will play their final performances in their respective roles on July 20. Horsely Pfeiffer and Jordan Fisher will also depart the musical on the same date. Following these departures, Ashley Loren will assume the role of Satine, and Christian Douglas will step in as Christian, signaling a refreshed ensemble for the enduring production.
Wayne Brady: From Emmy Wins to Broadway Lights
Wayne Brady arrives on the Broadway stage with a celebrated and diverse career spanning multiple mediums. A five-time Emmy Award winner and multiple Grammy nominee, Brady has left an indelible mark as an actor, producer, singer, dancer, songwriter, author, podcast host, and television personality.
His extensive Broadway resume includes memorable turns as The Wiz in The Wiz, Billy Flynn in Chicago, Lola in Kinky Boots, and a notable appearance in Freestyle Love Supreme. Beyond Broadway, Brady’s stage credits include Aaron Burr in Hamilton (Chicago production), Collins in Rent (Los Angeles), Fred in Kiss Me, Kate (Los Angeles), and Charlie in Merrily We Roll Along (Los Angeles). Most recently, Brady launched his “What If?!” podcast and co-wrote an original short story for The End of the World As We Know It: New Tales of Stephen King’s The Stand. Explore Wayne Brady’s extensive career on time.news
Taye Diggs: A Respected Figure of Stage and Screen
Taye Diggs brings a wealth of experience from both stage and screen to his new role. He is widely recognized for his series-leading roles in television dramas such as Private Practice, Murder in the First, and All American. His filmography boasts notable credits including How Stella Got Her Groove Back, The Wood, and The Best Man.
On stage and in film, Diggs originated the iconic role of Benjamin Coffin III in the acclaimed musical Rent. His other significant Broadway appearances include Chicago, Wicked, and Hedwig and the Angry Inch. Diggs’ most recent film endeavor is Terry McMillan Presents: Forever, which is currently available for streaming on Lifetime’s website. Learn more about Taye Diggs’ film and stage legacy
The addition of such formidable talents as Wayne Brady and Taye Diggs ensures that Moulin Rouge! The Musical will continue to be a must-see spectacle on Broadway, reinforcing its reputation as a magnet for star power and theatrical excellence.
