Former Village People Cowboy Jim Newman Returns to Broadway in 'Mamma Mia'

Jim Newman, celebrated for his decade-long run as the Cowboy in the Village People, has made a triumphant return to Broadway in the revival of Mamma Mia! at the historic Winter Garden Theatre. The production, which runs through February 1, 2026, brings together a dazzling cast including Christine Sherrill as Donna, Amy Weaver as Sophie, Carly Sakolove as Rosie, Jalynn Steele as Tanya, Rob Marnell as Harry Bright, Victor Wallace as Sam Carmichael, and Grant Reynolds as Sky, with Newman shining in the pivotal role of Bill Austin .

For many in the LGBTQ+ community, Newman’s visibility and authenticity on stage offer not only entertainment but serve as a beacon of hope and affirmation. His return marks a significant moment for queer representation in mainstream musical theatre .

Newman’s Broadway journey has been anything but conventional. Before returning to the stage, he spent ten years touring internationally as the Cowboy with the Village People, a group whose disco anthems like “YMCA” have become synonymous with LGBTQ+ pride and celebration . Newman’s stint with the group included performing in vibrant costumes—lime green boots included—and connecting with queer audiences worldwide .

Yet, his path was not always secure. Newman has spoken candidly about the financial struggles he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that the stability of a recurring Broadway role is a rare gift for many in the performing arts, particularly for older actors and LGBTQ+ performers .

"It's really just been too good of a gig, and most of us have been with it since it opened about 17 months ago," Newman shared, reflecting on the supportive environment he has found with the Mamma Mia! creative team and cast. “Eight shows a week at 60 definitely hits different from the last time I toured 25 years ago,” he added, highlighting the endurance and passion required to sustain a Broadway career .

Born and raised in Center Point, Alabama, Newman’s early years were shaped by both challenge and inspiration. He credits his choir teacher and his father as pivotal influences, helping him discover his voice and resilience. Facing resistance and limited acceptance in his hometown, Newman moved to New York City—a place, in his words, “where there were a lot of me”—to pursue his dream of performing and living authentically .

Navigating both the joys and difficulties of coming out and finding acceptance, Newman’s journey has become a touchstone for many LGBTQ+ individuals, especially those from conservative or rural backgrounds. “I was running from a place that wasn’t gonna let me be me. The me that I was afraid to admit was me. And I knew I had to go to a city where there were a lot of me,” he reflected, emphasizing the importance of chosen family, mentorship, and community support .

Newman’s continued visibility in the entertainment industry holds special relevance for queer audiences. His career—from Broadway to disco stages and back—has intersected with pivotal moments in LGBTQ+ cultural history. The Village People, with their campy personas and unapologetic celebration of queer identity, have long been icons of pride. Newman’s role as the Cowboy brought a new generation of fans to their music and message .

Now, as he leads in Mamma Mia!, Newman is once again at the forefront of queer cultural representation in mainstream entertainment. His story underscores the importance of authentic LGBTQ+ voices in the arts and the impact of positive role models, both onstage and off. By sharing his own struggles and triumphs, Newman not only entertains but also inspires, reminding audiences of all identities that living authentically and pursuing one’s dreams is both powerful and possible.

As the curtain rises on Mamma Mia! and Jim Newman’s star continues to shine, his journey stands as a testament to perseverance, creativity, and the enduring strength of the LGBTQ+ community.