Sherri Shepherd to join Broadway’s ‘Aladdin’ as the Genie, and she’s ‘beyond thrilled’

Daytime Emmy Award-winning host Sherri Shepherd will join the cast of Broadway's hit musical Aladdin as the Genie, performing a limited engagement from October 16 to January 3. Shepherd announced her upcoming theatrical role during interviews detailing her preparations, which involve rigorous voice and dance lessons alongside long walks through New York City. The production marks her second major Broadway appearance following her 2014 performance as the evil Stepmother in Cinderella. Shepherd stated she accepted the demanding role to step outside her comfort zone, drawing inspiration from seeing Stephanie Mills perform in The Wiz during her childhood. The iconic Genie role was originated on Broadway by James Monroe Iglehart, who won a Tony Award for his performance in 2014. Producers have scheduled her limited run to boost audience engagement during the fall and winter theater season, utilizing her widespread media recognition and background in television and comedy.