Jean Smart, an actor, has temporarily stepped down from her role in the Broadway show Call Me Izzy, following an injury to her knee. The 73-year-old Emmy winner had only recently returned to the Broadway stage for the first time in 25 years.
The play, a one-woman drama, opened at Studio 54 on June 12 and is to run through August 17 as a limited 12-week engagement.
In Smart's absence, just Johanna Day, a two-time Tony Award nominee, has stepped up to take over the role.
Day began performing on July 5 and will continue through July 11. Producers have not announced when Smart will return, however, they remain hopeful she will once she recovers.
After the announcement, fans showed strong support, with many expressing concern and well-wishes. Smart's return to Broadway had garnered much anticipation, as she last returned to the stage in 2000 where she secured a Tony nomination for her performance in The Man Who Came to Dinner.
Long story short: Day before her last scheduled performance there was an accident with the trapdoor, she freefell and was rushed to the hospital green and in costume. She fractured a rib but they still wanted her to come in for a proper sendoff 🥹
— 💚 (@menzelmania) January 9, 2025
just don't sass her about it ! pic.twitter.com/xeQGFlICM1
Call Me Izzy Moves Forward with New Lead
Written by Jamie Wax and directed by Sarna Lapine, Call Me Izzy tells the story of a woman in rural Louisiana who turns to poetry as a way to cope with the trauma of an abusive marriage. The solo performance highlights emotional strength and personal healing, themes that have resonated strongly with audiences.
While Jean Smart takes time to heal, Johanna Day continues to lead the production. Known for her commanding stage presence, Day is expected to bring the same emotional depth to the role that has made the play so impactful.
The show remains on schedule at Studio 54, and ticket holders have been reassured that performances will go on as planned. Many theatergoers are still attending, both to experience the powerful story and to support the production team during this temporary change.
Producers have said they will share updates on Smart’s return when available, but for now, the focus remains on keeping the show going while she recovers.
