LuPone Skips Tonys Amid Backlash Over Remarks

Patti LuPone did not attend the 2025 Tony Awards after facing backlash for making disparaging and racially charged remarks about Audra McDonald and Kecia Lewis in a New Yorker profile. LuPone's comments, which included complaints about the noise from Lewis's show Hell's Kitchen and dismissive remarks about McDonald's performance in Gypsy, led Lewis to label her behavior as 'racially microaggressive bullying.' More than 500 theater professionals signed an open letter calling for LuPone to be disinvited, emphasizing the industry's stance on inclusivity and respect. During the ceremony, Oprah Winfrey indirectly addressed the controversy while presenting the Best Actress in a Musical award, which included McDonald as a nominee. LuPone later issued a public apology, expressing regret for her 'inappropriate' comments. The incident has intensified debate within the Broadway community over accountability and professional conduct.