Lea Michele has something big brewing — and she’s keeping fans guessing, for now.
The Glee alum stopped by The Kelly Clarkson Show on Thursday (May 22), where she gave viewers a taste of her vocal magic with a performance of Olivia Rodrigo’s “Driver’s License.” The moving cover was part of the promo tour for her current concert series, which includes a section dedicated to the songs she imagines her iconic character Rachel Berry would be singing if Glee were still airing today.
But it was her post-performance chat with Kelly Clarkson that really got fans buzzing. When asked what’s next, Lea dropped a major hint.
“I have something exciting coming up that I’ll be announcing very soon,” she teased.
That one line was enough to send the internet into speculation overdrive, especially considering the long-standing rumors that Lea may be stepping into a lead role in the upcoming Broadway revival of Chess. The rumors started years ago and only intensified when BroadwayWorld.com confirmed this week that Chess is officially returning to the stage in Fall 2025.
Adding fuel to the fire? Michael Mayer is directing the new production. Mayer previously directed Lea in Spring Awakening and more recently in Funny Girl, so the two already share a strong creative bond. While Lea didn’t confirm anything on air, the stars certainly seem to be aligning.
If she is returning to Broadway with Chess, it would mark another huge milestone in a career that’s already full of them. From Glee to Funny Girl, Lea’s powerhouse vocals and stage presence have made her a fan favorite for musical theatre lovers.
In the meantime, fans can catch her on tour, where she continues to show why she’s one of Broadway’s most beloved voices. And whether the big announcement is Chess or something totally unexpected, one thing is clear — Lea Michele is ready for her next act.
