Whitney Leavitt is set to begin a new chapter in her entertainment career. The breakout star of Hulu’s The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives and a season 34 semi-finalist on Dancing With the Stars will make her Broadway debut in Chicago. She will take on the coveted role of Roxie Hart for a six-week limited engagement at the Ambassador Theatre from February 2 to March 15, 2026. This major opportunity marks her first professional theater role and signals a bold transition from reality TV and digital stardom to the Broadway stage.
A Social Media Sensation Finds a New Spotlight
Leavitt, a Utah-based mom of three, has built a passionate following online. Her mix of dance content, family humor, and lifestyle storytelling has earned her more than four million loyal fans. While she is new to Broadway, she is no stranger to the world of Chicago. During week 9 of DWTS, she and partner Mark Ballas performed an Argentine Tango to the show’s iconic number, “Cell Block Tango.” That performance foreshadowed her landing this role, and it offered a glimpse of her potential as Roxie Hart.
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Chicago’s Legacy and Its Current Cast
The Broadway revival of Chicago is now in its 29th year and stands as the longest-running American musical in history. With music by John Kander, lyrics by Fred Ebb, and the unforgettable vision of Bob Fosse, the show has become a global phenomenon. Since 1996, it has played in 36 countries and reached over 33 million people. The current cast includes Kate Baldwin as Roxie Hart, Sophie Carmen-Jones as Velma Kelly, Tam Mutu as Billy Flynn, Tony winner Alex Newell as Matron “Mama” Morton, and Raymond Bokhour as Amos Hart. Leavitt will join an ensemble known for precision, style, and world-class performance.
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A Journey Fueled by Determination
Leavitt’s Broadway announcement followed a teaser she made during an appearance on the Call Her Daddy podcast. Joined by Mark Ballas, she hinted that one of their DWTS dances would “come to life.” Fans immediately speculated about a connection to Chicago, and the news confirmed their guesses. Leavitt also revealed that she has booked her first movie role, showcasing her expanding career.
Handling Criticism and Staying Focused
During her time on DWTS, Leavitt faced online criticism from viewers who questioned her dance background or believed the judges favored Ballas. Both partners addressed the controversy on the podcast. Ballas described the negativity as relentless, while Leavitt said she had become desensitized to online attacks due to her years on Mormon Wives. Yet she struggled with seeing Ballas experience backlash because of their partnership. Despite the pressure, she performed with confidence and originality, earning praise from judges and fans.
Following the Path of Other DWTS Alumni
Leavitt is not the first Dancing With the Stars alum to headline Chicago. In 2024, Ariana Madix joined the show as Roxie Hart after her run on season 32. The connection reflects a trend of reality TV personalities stepping successfully into Broadway roles. Leavitt admitted she never expected to win DWTS, but she chose to compete for the experience and the chance to pursue her dreams. That choice helped shape her path to the Broadway stage.
A New Chapter for Whitney Leavitt
Taking on the role of Roxie Hart places Leavitt among an elite group of women who have shaped the character’s legacy. From Gwen Verdon and Chita Rivera in the 1975 original, to Ann Reinking and Bebe Neuwirth in the 1996 revival, the role demands charisma, precision, and star power. With her dance background, on-camera experience, and devoted fanbase, Leavitt enters this next chapter with momentum. Her Broadway debut is poised to elevate her career and introduce her to a new audience.
