Audra McDonald on Patti LuPone Feud: Not Unaware
Audra McDonald doesn’t shy away from Patti LuPone’s “not a friend” claim, sparking a Broadway buzz. Discover how McDonald responds to the surprising statement and the alleged feud. The root of the drama? McDonald’s support for Kecia Lewis after a social media exchange. Explore the reaction from the Broadway community. With the Tony Awards on the horizon, speculation mounts, and News Directory 3 is following the unfolding drama closely. Explore the dynamics between these two iconic performers. Uncover how past collaborations and a perceived snub have fueled this theatrical rift. Discover what’s next as the theatre world watches closely.
Audra McDonald Addresses Patti LuPone’s “Not a Friend” Remark
Updated June 02, 2025
Audra McDonald, in a recent interview, addressed Patti lupone’s assertion that they are not friends. McDonald, 54, expressed surprise, noting she hasn’t seen LuPone in more than a decade due to conflicting schedules. The Broadway community has largely shown support for McDonald during this high-profile Tony Awards season.
McDonald suggested LuPone should be asked about any perceived conflict. She emphasized that their paths simply haven’t crossed in years. The situation has drawn attention as the 78th Tony Awards approach,were McDonald is nominated for her performance in ”Gypsy.”
The apparent tension arose after McDonald supported actress Kecia Lewis, who criticized LuPone on instagram for noise complaints regarding Alicia Keys’ “Hell’s Kitchen.” Lewis described LuPone’s actions as bullying and racially insensitive.McDonald’s supportive emojis on the post were noted by LuPone as evidence of McDonald taking sides.
Despite past collaborations in productions like “Sweeney Todd,” LuPone reportedly avoided praising McDonald’s work in “Gypsy,” offering a dismissive comment instead. This perceived snub, coupled with the Instagram incident, has fueled speculation about a rift between the two Broadway stars.
Public figures including Alex Newell, Natasha Rothwell, Reneé Rapp, and Donna Murphy have voiced their support for McDonald, highlighting her artistry and integrity. McDonald, recently featured on the cover of Time as ”our greatest living stage actor,” has maintained a gracious stance throughout the controversy.
The unfolding drama has heightened anticipation for the upcoming Tonys, raising questions about whether the alleged feud will be addressed during the event. For now, McDonald remains focused on her work, allowing her performances to speak for themselves.
McDonald said, “I haven’t seen her in 11 years. Life gets busy, and we just haven’t crossed paths.”
What’s next
As the Tony Awards draw near, the theater world will be watching to see if this alleged feud impacts the ceremony or the interactions between these two legendary performers.