Billy Porter Exits Broadway’s "Cabaret" Revival After Sepsis Diagnosis; Show Set to Close Early

Broadway and LGBTQ+ icon Billy Porter has withdrawn from the Broadway revival of "Cabaret" due to a serious case of sepsis, a potentially life-threatening response to infection, according to statements released by both the show’s producers and Porter's representatives . Porter, who had only recently taken over the role of the Emcee following his acclaimed turn in London, was forced to end his run after doctors diagnosed the infection and ordered immediate treatment and rest.

Producers have confirmed that although Porter’s departure was abrupt, his medical team is confident in his recovery . The Tony and Emmy-winning performer’s health remains the production’s primary concern, with statements expressing both relief at his positive prognosis and deep gratitude for his contributions to the show’s legacy.

Porter’s exit has had significant repercussions for the Broadway revival, which will now close earlier than originally planned. The production, which began its run at the newly redesigned Kit Kat Club (formerly the August Wilson Theatre), was initially scheduled to continue through October 19, 2025. However, following Porter’s illness, the final performance has been moved up to September 21, 2025 .

While the show was a critical and commercial hit during its West End engagement, the Broadway staging faced challenges in ticket sales and high operating costs, particularly due to the extensive transformation of the theater into an immersive Weimar-era Berlin nightclub .

Despite these hurdles, the revival has been lauded for its bold casting and innovative staging, with Porter’s performance as the Emcee celebrated as a high point. His interpretation brought fresh nuance and visibility to an iconic role, further solidifying his status as a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ representation on Broadway.

Billy Porter’s presence in "Cabaret" resonated deeply with LGBTQ+ audiences and artists. As one of the most visible openly gay Black performers in American theater, Porter’s casting in the role of the Emcee—a character long recognized for its subversive and queer-coded narrative—was seen as both a celebration and a reclamation of LGBTQ+ history in musical theater.

Community leaders and advocacy organizations have expressed both concern for Porter’s health and admiration for his ongoing commitment to visibility and inclusion. His performance in "Cabaret" continued a career-long tradition of challenging stereotypes and advocating for marginalized voices, both onstage and off.

The early closure of the revival has also prompted conversations about the pressures faced by LGBTQ+ artists in high-profile productions, especially in the wake of health crises. For many, Porter’s situation serves as a reminder of the importance of accessible healthcare, workplace accommodations, and mental health support within the performing arts—issues that disproportionately affect LGBTQ+ performers.

Porter’s withdrawal from "Cabaret" is not expected to diminish his influence or the impact of the production. Producers have signaled plans to support Porter during his recovery and have left open the possibility of future collaborations once he is well enough to return to the stage .

As the revival prepares to end its run, the Broadway community reflects on Porter’s remarkable contributions and the enduring relevance of "Cabaret" as a work that explores themes of identity, resistance, and resilience—values that have special resonance for LGBTQ+ audiences worldwide.

While the curtain falls earlier than expected, Porter’s legacy as a champion of diversity, talent, and authenticity continues to inspire both established and emerging artists across the spectrum of gender, sexuality, and race.