Whitney Leavitt Chicago Debut: How Big Will Her Roxie Hart Breakthrough Be?

Whitney Leavitt will make her Broadway debut as Roxie Hart in Chicago on February 2, 2026. She joins the long-running production at the Ambassador Theatre in New York City for a six-week engagement through March 15, 2026. The news confirms her first professional theater role and marks a major shift in her career.

The Dancing with the Stars season 34 semi-finalist rose to national attention in 2025. She also starred in Hulu’s The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, building a large online following. Her casting in Chicago brings her talent from television and social media to one of Broadway’s most iconic musicals.

Whitney Leavitt’s Path to Her Chicago Debut

Leavitt, 32, is known for dance-focused content and family comedy videos that helped her build a devoted digital audience. Her Argentine Tango performance to “Cell Block Tango” on DWTS connected her to Chicago long before her Broadway debut. The production confirmed her limited-engagement run, which begins on February 2, 2026.

Chicago remains the longest-running American musical in Broadway history. The show first premiered in 1975 and continues to draw strong audiences. It features a celebrated score by John Kander and Fred Ebb, including “All That Jazz,” “Roxie,” and “Razzle Dazzle.”

The musical follows Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly as they navigate notoriety, crime, and showbiz ambition. Many trusted outlets, including Associated Press and Reuters, have noted the show’s lasting cultural influence. Leavitt joins a long list of performers who have stepped into the role of Roxie, from Gwen Verdon to Ann Reinking to Renée Zellweger in the Oscar-winning 2002 film.

Her debut signals a crossover moment for a new generation of performers who come from reality TV and social media. Chicago often rotates high-profile guest stars, but Leavitt’s background in dance gives her a strong foundation for the role. Fans of DWTS and her streaming series are expected to follow her transition to the stage.

What Leavitt’s Broadway Moment Means for Fans and the Production

Leavitt’s casting is expected to attract younger audiences to Broadway. Her rise from digital creator to major reality-TV figure gives producers a fresh promotional angle. Industry observers say the move aligns with Broadway’s push to expand its reach beyond traditional theater fans.

The production continues to evolve with new performers each season. Leavitt’s debut comes as Chicago prepares for its 30th year on Broadway in 2026. Her six-week run offers a limited chance for fans to see her interpretation of Roxie Hart. Early reactions on social media show strong excitement for her Broadway arrival.

Leavitt’s Chicago debut is set to be a major milestone in her career. It combines her dance background, her growing celebrity, and the enduring appeal of one of Broadway’s most successful shows. Her performance in the role of Roxie Hart will be closely watched when the curtain rises in February 2026.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: When does Whitney Leavitt start her Chicago Broadway run?

She begins performances on February 2, 2026. Her engagement lasts through March 15, 2026.

Q2: Has Whitney Leavitt performed in theater before?

No. This is her first professional theater role. She is transitioning from television and digital media.

Q3: Why was she selected for the role of Roxie Hart?

Her dance background and strong public profile made her a strong candidate. She also performed a Chicago-inspired routine on DWTS.

Q4: Where will the performances take place?

The show runs at the Ambassador Theatre in New York City. It is the long-time home of Chicago.

Q5: How long has Chicago been on Broadway?

Chicago entered its 29th year in 2025. It is the longest-running American musical in Broadway history.