Sherri Shepherd to play the Genie in Broadway's Aladdin

Sherri Shepherd, the Emmy-winning comedian and former 'The View' co-host, will make history as the first woman to play the Genie in a Disney-produced production of 'Aladdin'.

Shepherd is scheduled for a limited engagement at the New Amsterdam Theatre on Broadway, beginning October 16, 2026, and running through January 3, 2027. During her tenure, current Genie Caleb A. Barnett will remain with the production as a standby.

This casting marks a significant departure from the character's traditional portrayal, which has been male in all Disney-produced stage versions and major film adaptations. Shepherd, who previously appeared on Broadway in 'Cinderella', expressed her excitement about the role, noting her desire to bring unique energy and humor to the iconic character.