Megan Hilty Announces Leave of Absence From Broadway

Megan Hilty has done her final curtain call…for now.

The star performing as Madeline Ashton in the Broadway remake of “Death Becomes Her” has shared that she’ll be stepping away for a while, owing to an issue with her vocals.

Megan posted on her June 11 Instagram that Madeline Ashton is undoubtedly the most demanding and gratifying role she’s ever tackled. She’s gone to extraordinary measures just to ensure she can perform in the show, a task in itself. The details of my rigorous routine are too extensive for this post, but I carry it out willingly because, as I’ve stated before, I truly cherish what I do.

Despite her fondness for musicals, the 43-year-old realizes that resting is necessary to prevent further injury. To safeguard her voice, she plans to temporarily step back from the character, originally played by Meryl Streep in the 1992 film, for about three to four weeks.

The Smash singer explained, “It’s challenging for me to acknowledge my humanity, as performers are often expected to persevere and act invincible. However, I am incredibly lucky to collaborate with exceptional producers, companies, and stage managers who don’t adhere to that mindset and wholeheartedly back us when our bodies signal it’s time for a rest.

Meanwhile, Megan’s role will be temporarily covered, she kindly requested fans for their “tolerance and comprehension” as the show navigates her temporary departure. She also encourages viewers to offer similar understanding to other Broadway singers who undertake the “monumental challenge” of performing night after night on stage.

Megan put it this way: “As athletes, we’re bound to experience injuries similar to those a professional basketball player might face,” she clarified. “Can’t wait till I’m back at the Lunt-Fontanne to see you again.

Four days after her performance with the Death Becomes Her cast at the 2025 Tony Awards, singing “For the Gaze,” Megan received her announcement. The nomination was for Best Actress in a Musical, but this honor eventually went to Nicole Scherzinger’s role in Sunset Boulevard.

Despite not taking home a Tony in the category, she’s still over the moon about being recognized.

She expressed to Broadway World in May that this nomination means everything to her, not due to a pursuit of awards, but because it signifies recognition for the impact she’s made on the Broadway community. It’s like being invited to an exclusive event.

Keep reading to see more stars at the 2025 Tony Awards…