Patti LuPone Admits She Wanted to Call Glenn Close a ‘Bitch’ for Replacing Her on Broadway
In a recent candid interview with *The New Yorker*, Broadway legend Patti LuPone opened up about her complicated relationship with actress Glenn Close, reigniting a long-standing feud over a past casting decision. The rivalry traces back to 1994, when the renowned composer Andrew Lloyd Webber chose Close to take over the iconic role of Norma Desmond in the acclaimed musical *Sunset Boulevard*. LuPone, who had previously performed the role in the West End, felt a deep sense of rejection and betrayal when she learned about the casting change not through a personal conversation, but rather through media reports.
The Origins of the Rivalry
The animosity between LuPone and Close escalated during a mutual appearance in 2011, where an encounter proved particularly uncomfortable. According to LuPone, Close sat next to her at the event, and when the topic of the casting change came up, Close attempted to deflect responsibility by claiming, “I had nothing to do with it.” LuPone, however, was not in the mood for diplomatic responses and revealed that she was tempted to lash out, indicating that she wanted to call Close a derogatory term in response to the hurt she felt.
Candid Reflections on Fellow Broadway Stars
In her *New Yorker* interview, LuPone did not hold back her critiques of other Broadway luminaries. She took aim at Audra McDonald, another celebrated actress, labeling her as “not a friend.” This admission hinted at the complexity of relationships that can develop in the tight-knit world of theater. Additionally, LuPone stirred controversy by chastising fellow actress Kecia Lewis over comments related to a production of *Hell’s Kitchen*. LuPone’s perspective on Lewis focused on the latter’s claims of being a seasoned veteran of the stage, which LuPone dismissed by referencing her own extensive experience in the industry.
Personal Struggles and Relationships
LuPone’s reflections also touched on her difficult personal relationships, including a painful connection with actor Kevin Kline from the late ’60s. She characterized this relationship as challenging, expressing her struggle to maintain her identity and sense of self while being in a romance with him. This honesty about her past relationships further underscores LuPone’s unapologetic approach to her life and career.
The rawness and candidness of LuPone’s remarks provide a fascinating window into the complexities of Broadway rivalries and personal challenges. As she navigates her career with unfiltered honesty, LuPone continues to intrigue fans and observers alike with her willingness to address difficult topics openly.
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