Photo credit: Sherri Shepherd
Sherri Shepherd is stepping into a role no woman has played before.
The actress, comedian and television host will become the first woman to play the Genie in Disney’s Aladdin on Broadway. Her limited run begins Oct. 16, 2026, and continues through Jan. 3, 2027.
The official Aladdin Instagram account welcomed Shepherd as the production’s newest Genie. Fans can now look forward to seeing her grant wishes at the New Amsterdam Theatre in New York City.
Sherri Shepherd Genie role begins October 16
Shepherd announced the career milestone on Instagram with plenty of excitement.
“Well… THE SECRET IS OUT!” she wrote, revealing that she had a new kind of magic up her sleeve.
Shepherd said she feels honored to make Broadway history in the role. She also promised to bring her own brand of joy, laughter and personality to the character.
The announcement comes as another major milestone in her entertainment career.
Shepherd has built a diverse career across comedy, television, film and theater. Now, she is taking on one of Disney’s most recognizable characters.
View this post on Instagram
Shepherd brings her own magic to Aladdin
The Genie has been one of the most popular characters in Aladdin since the animated film debuted in 1992.
On Broadway, the role has also become a major showcase for performers. James Monroe Iglehart originated the Broadway role and won a Tony Award for his performance.
Shepherd will now give the character her own interpretation.
Her comedic background could make for a lively take on the larger-than-life Genie. She also teased plenty of sass and personality in her announcement.
Shepherd even joked about needing to find a magic carpet for her new Broadway adventure.
Fans can see Sherri Shepherd through January
The Sherri Shepherd Genie engagement is scheduled for nearly three months.
According to the official Aladdin Broadway account, Shepherd will perform as Genie from Oct. 16 through Jan. 3, 2027.
The limited run gives fans several weeks to see the historic performance in person.
For Shepherd, the role represents another major chapter in a career that has taken her from comedy clubs to television screens and now the Broadway stage.
Her history-making debut is set to bring a fresh energy to one of Disney’s most beloved musicals.
View this post on Instagram
Source: Sherri Shepherd and the official Aladdin Instagram accounts.
About the Author
