Megan Thee Stallion Joins Moulin Rouge! The Musical in Final Broadway Stretch
Megan Thee Stallion is heading to Broadway. The Grammy-winning rapper announced that she will join the cast of Moulin Rouge! The Musical in the role of Harold Zidler, the flamboyant master of ceremonies and proprietor of the famed Parisian cabaret.
Her engagement begins March 24 and runs through May 17, as the long-running production approaches its closing date of July 26. Megan is expected to perform at all scheduled performances during that window, with the exception of May 2.
In a statement reported by The New York Times, Megan said she views the role as a creative expansion. “I’ve always believed in pushing myself creatively,” she said. “Theater is definitely a new opportunity that I’m excited to embrace.”
Zidler is a central figure in the story, serving as the larger-than-life impresario of the Moulin Rouge. In Baz Luhrmann’s 2001 film adaptation, the character was portrayed by Jim Broadbent. On Broadway, however, the role has taken on a new dimension. Since the musical opened in July 2018, Zidler has been portrayed as a gay man, and the role was originated by Tony Award winner Danny Burstein. Since then, performers including Tituss Burgess, Boy George, and Wayne Brady have stepped into the part, each bringing a distinct interpretation to the emcee’s theatrical bravado.
The stage adaptation blends pop hits from multiple decades into its Belle Époque setting, incorporating contemporary chart-toppers alongside classic standards. Given Megan’s catalog, including “Savage,” “Hot Girl Summer” and “WAP”, speculation is already circulating about whether elements of her own music might be integrated into the show’s existing framework during her run. The production is known for refreshing song arrangements and references over time, though no official changes have been announced.
For the producers, Megan’s casting is both a creative and strategic move. As the musical enters its final months, high-profile guest stars offer an opportunity to generate renewed attention and ticket demand. Lead producer Carmen Pavlovic described the rapper as “the force of nature” capable of sending the show off “with a spectacular bang.”
The casting also reflects Broadway’s increasing embrace of crossover talent from music and film. In recent seasons, pop artists and television personalities have drawn new audiences to long-running productions, often resulting in short-term box office surges.
For Megan, the role marks a significant departure from the concert stage and recording studio. While she has previously ventured into acting, including appearances in film and television, live musical theater presents a different set of demands, requiring nightly performances within a tightly choreographed ensemble structure.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical, based on Luhrmann’s film, follows a young composer who falls in love with cabaret star Satine against the backdrop of turn-of-the-century Paris. The production has been a consistent box office performer since its 2018 debut and won 10 Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
