Billy Porter Exits Broadway’s Cabaret Due to Serious Sepsis Diagnosis, Forcing Acclaimed Production to End Early After Over 600 Performances

Billy Porter has been forced to pull out of his Broadway performance, forcing the entire production to shut down.

Broadway’s Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club will close its doors on September 21st after a highly successful run of nearly 600 performances. Producers announced the closure following Porter’s abrupt departure due to a serious case of sepsis. Doctors have advised him to rest and recover fully, prompting a tough decision to end the show early.

Porter was scheduled to star as the Emcee through mid-October and had only recently joined the production this summer, reuniting with co-star Marisha Wallace after their London run. Though alternates Marty Lauter and David Merino will step in for the final stretch, producers felt the absence of Porter’s magnetic presence made it impossible to continue.

The revival first opened in London before landing on Broadway in April 2024, where it gained acclaim for its bold staging and powerhouse performances. With multiple Tony nods and an all-star cast including Eddie Redmayne, Gayle Rankin, Adam Lambert, and Orville Peck, this Cabaret revival had star power to spare.

But Billy’s role was pivotal. His departure wasn’t just a casting change; it changed the entire show’s fate.

Tickets are still available for the final performances.