From Reality TV to the Great White Way: Whitney Leavitt’s Broadway Debut
Whitney Leavitt is taking the stage on Broadway. The television personality will star as Roxie Hart in the long-running musical “Chicago.” Her debut run is scheduled from February 2 through March 15, 2026, at New York’s Ambassador Theatre.
This move follows Leavitt’s recent and controversial elimination from “Dancing with the Stars” season 34. Her casting marks a significant career pivot from reality television to professional theater.

Controversy and Casting: A Swift Career Turn
The announcement of Leavitt’s Broadway debut comes just weeks after her “Dancing with the Stars” journey ended. She was a strong competitor on the show, even earning a perfect score. However, she was eliminated before the finals, a decision that sparked widespread debate among fans and fellow contestants.
According to Entertainment Weekly, fellow season 34 contestant Andy Richter called her elimination “absolutely insane.” The decision fueled online discussions about her public persona, shaped by her role on Hulu‘s “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.” Leavitt has openly discussed the “tidal wave of online hate” she has faced, as reported by USA Today.
A Modern Broadway Trend in Action
Leavitt’s casting is part of a proven Broadway strategy. Producers often bring in celebrities from outside theater to draw new audiences and media attention. She follows a list of famous names who have played Roxie Hart, including reality stars and television personalities.
This will be Leavitt’s first professional theater role. Her transition was hinted at during her “DWTS” run. She performed a memorable Argentine Tango to “Cell Block Tango,” a famous number from the “Chicago” score.
The role of Roxie is a demanding one. It requires charisma, comedic timing, and strong vocal and dance skills. Leavitt’s six-week run will be a major test of her live performance abilities beyond the reality TV format.
Dropping this nugget your way-
When is Whitney Leavitt performing in ‘Chicago’?
Whitney Leavitt will perform as Roxie Hart from February 2 to March 15, 2026. Her engagement is for a limited six-week run at the Ambassador Theatre on Broadway.
Is this Whitney Leavitt’s first theater role?
Yes. This marks Whitney Leavitt’s first professional theater role. Her background is primarily in reality television and social media content creation.
Why was her ‘Dancing with the Stars’ exit controversial?
Leavitt was eliminated despite strong judges’ scores and a perfect performance. Many fans and a fellow contestant felt the public voting, possibly influenced by her reality TV persona, led to an unfair early exit.
Who else has played Roxie Hart on Broadway?
The role has featured many celebrities, including reality TV stars like Ariana Maddix and Erika Jayne, as well as actors like Lisa Rinna and Melanie Griffith. It is known for high-profile guest casting.
Where can I buy tickets for her shows?
Tickets for “Chicago” starring Whitney Leavitt are available through the musical’s official website. Purchasing from official sources ensures valid tickets for her scheduled performance dates.
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