NBC broke records last December with their live-action version of The Wiz, and they’re about to have another hit on their hands.
The network announced yesterday that it had tapped Jennifer Hudson to star in the December 7 production of Hairspray Live,.
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The musical, based on the 1988 hit film, will follow 60s teen Tracy Turnblad as she attempts to land a spot on—and integrate—a local variety show. Hudson will play the role of Motormouth Maybelle, the outspoken mother of one of Tracy’s classmates.
“We’re…so grateful that the incomparable Jennifer Hudson will play Motormouth Maybelle,” NBC Entertainment Chairman Robert Greenblatt said in a statement, “and we know her rendition of ‘I Know Where I’ve Been’ will literally stop the show.”
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Starring alongside Hudson will be Broadway veteran Harvey Fierstein, who will play the role of Tracy’s mother. He played the same role in the Broadway version of the musical.
“We are beyond thrilled with this incredibly talented duo of stars for ‘Hairspray Live!,” Greenblatt said. “Harvey Fierstein created the role of Edna Turnblad on Broadway in an indelible Tony-winning performance that demanded to be memorialized on film, and we’re happy he wanted to step into her shoes one last, unforgettable time.”
Hairspray Live premieres December 7 at 8 pm ET on NBC.
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