When Ashley Graham, the 37‑year‑old supermodel and body‑positivity champion, announced her Broadway debut as Roxie Hart on Thursday, April 9, 2025, the theater world collectively leaned in.
The news landed on Instagram, where Graham posted a jittery video captioned, “I wrote this on my vision board back in 2019… be careful what you wish for, because dreams do come true. See you on Broadway!!! ❤️✨.” The post was quickly picked up by CBS Mornings, which ran a live interview that same morning.
From Vision Board to Stage: The Journey
Graham says the seed was planted during a middle‑school field trip to a “Les Misérables” performance, a memory she recalled in a May 2025 feature for V Magazine. “I’ve always known there’s a performer inside me,” she told the magazine. “I used that in my modeling, but I never trained as a singer or dancer. I built a wall because I thought ‘that can’t be a real dream.’”
In 2019, she and her husband started a habit of stuffing big yellow pads with goals. One line read simply: “Sing on Broadway.” The phrase resurfaced in a candid chat with The Broadway Show host, where she explained, “I’m all about writing down what we want. The universe answered a few years later.”
The Production: “Chicago” at the Ambassador Theatre
Graham will step into the iconic role from Tuesday, April 15 through Sunday, May 25, 2025, at the Ambassador Theatre (219 West 49th Street, Midtown Manhattan). The run is listed as an Chicago musical on Playbill’s official roster.
Current cast members include Sophie Carmen‑Jones as Velma Kelly, Dylis Croman (the departing Roxie), Max von Essen as Billy Flynn, and Raymond Bokhour as Amos Hart. Grahm’s arrival means a reshuffling of the ensemble, but producers say her “charisma and star power will draw new audiences to a classic.”
What Critics and Coaches Say
Broadway vocal coach Katherine “Kat” Calhoun has been working with Graham since early March. “She’s a natural storyteller,” Calhoun notes. “The challenge is stamina—singing six nights a week is a marathon, not a runway walk.”
Early previews earned a buzz from the New York Times critic, who praised Graham’s “electric energy” in the number “All That Jazz,” while noting a “rough edge” in some vocal runs—a normal part of the learning curve.
Impact on Body Positivity and Broadway Diversity
Graham’s casting is more than a celebrity cameo; it’s a statement. For years, she’s advocated for plus‑size representation in fashion, launching the “Ashley Graham Curve” line and partnering with brands like Aerie on inclusive campaigns. Her Broadway move amplifies that mission, proving that “curvy” can occupy any stage, not just the catwalk.
Industry insiders point to the growing trend of diverse casting—think of Lloyd Lee as the first Asian‑American actor to play the Phantom in 2023. Graham’s presence could inspire more talent agencies to send “non‑traditional” performers to audition for lead roles.
What’s Next for Graham
Beyond the closing night on May 25, Graham plans to keep the momentum alive. She promised daily Instagram Stories tagged #GrahamOnBroadway, offering fans a backstage glimpse at rehearsals, costume fittings, and the inevitable pre‑show jitters.
In a later interview with Playbill, she hinted at a possible future recording of “Chicago” tracks, though she stopped short of confirming any contract details. One thing’s clear: the vision board that started as a scribble in 2019 now hangs in a New York loft, framed next to a ticket stub from opening night.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Ashley Graham’s Broadway debut affect body‑positive representation?
Graham’s casting sends a visible message that size‑inclusive talent can thrive in demanding musical roles. It challenges the historic image of the Broadway leading lady, encouraging producers to consider a broader range of body types for future productions.
When and where will the performances take place?
Graham headlines the show from April 15 to May 25, 2025, at the Ambassador Theatre, 219 West 49th Street in Manhattan’s Midtown district.
What training has Graham undergone for the role?
She has been coached by Broadway vocal trainer Katherine Calhoun and participated in a six‑week intensive that covers singing, dance, and acting fundamentals to meet the rigors of a full‑time performance schedule.
Who else is starring in this run of “Chicago”?
The current cast includes Sophie Carmen‑Jones as Velma Kelly, Max von Essen as Billy Flynn, Raymond Bokhour as Amos Hart, and R. Lowe as Mary Sunshine, among others.
Will Graham share her experience on social media?
Yes. She pledged to post daily behind‑the‑scenes content on Instagram, using the hashtag #GrahamOnBroadway, giving fans a front‑row view of rehearsals, costume changes, and pre‑show rituals.