Billy Porter Battles Sepsis as Cabaret Closes Early on Broadway
Billy Porter, the award-winning actor and singer, is currently recovering from what has been described as a “serious case of sepsis.” Because of this unexpected health crisis, Broadway’s revival of Cabaret , where Porter had been starring as the Emcee, will close its doors earlier than planned. Originally scheduled to run until October 19, the show will now end on September 21, nearly a month sooner.
The news was confirmed by the production team, who explained that Porter’s doctors have advised him to step back from performing in order to rest and focus on recovery. Although this situation is disappointing for both fans and the production, there is reassurance in knowing that his medical team is confident he will make a full recovery. Porter himself has not yet issued a personal statement, but the outpouring of support from the theater community and audiences has been immediate.
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Porter, who is 55 years old, took over the iconic role of the Emcee in July, alongside Marisha Wallace as Sally Bowles. The duo had previously appeared together in the acclaimed London production, which swept the Olivier Awards back in 2022. On Broadway, however, the revival has faced a tougher road. While the London version continues to thrive, ticket sales in New York have declined over recent months. Reports noted that weekly grosses, which once peaked at around $2 million in mid-2024, had dropped to just over $500,000 by late summer 2025.
Despite the financial strain, the artistic impact of the show has been undeniable. The staging transformed the August Wilson Theatre into an immersive Weimar-era nightclub, complete with pre-show performances and an in-the-round setting. Audiences praised the daring atmosphere and Porter’s powerful take on the Emcee, a role that has defined multiple generations of performers.
Producer Adam Speers admitted that closing early was a “painful decision,” but emphasized that Porter’s health comes first. He also celebrated Porter’s artistry, calling him an “extraordinary Emcee” whose passion and talent left a lasting impression. For the remaining performances, two alternates, Marty Lauter and David Merino, will rotate in the role of the Emcee, ensuring the show has a strong finish before the curtain falls for good.
Broadway is no stranger to sudden closures, but this moment carries added weight because it is tied to a serious health emergency. Sepsis, which can develop from infections that spread rapidly in the body, is a life-threatening condition if not treated immediately. The fact that Porter is expected to recover fully is welcome news, especially given the severity of the illness.
As the show prepares for its final bow, what lingers most is not the disappointment of an early closure but admiration for Billy Porter’s resilience and legacy. His presence on stage has once again pushed boundaries and brought new dimension to a classic role. Now, the focus shifts to his recovery, with fans and colleagues alike wishing him strength and healing in the weeks ahead.
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