JoJo is speaking out after her highly anticipated Broadway return was unexpectedly canceled just days before she was set to join the cast of Chess.
The 35-year-old “Too Little, Too Late” singer appeared blindsided after producers announced that the acclaimed revival would close in June — despite JoJo previously being announced as the next actress to take over the role of Florence Vassy from Lea Michele.
Back in March, JoJo’s casting was officially revealed, generating excitement among both theater fans and longtime supporters eager to see the singer return to Broadway. Lea Michele’s final performance had been scheduled for June 21, with JoJo expected to step into the role immediately afterward.
Even as recently as one day before the shocking closure announcement, JoJo appeared fully committed to preparing for the production. On Monday, May 25, she shared footage from her appearance at Chicago’s Forever Mine Festival on Instagram and referenced her upcoming transition into the musical.
“last show before I go into Chess. Very different worlds that I’m so lucky I get to inhabit,” she wrote.
But shortly after news broke that the production would end its run, fans began questioning whether JoJo would still get the opportunity to perform at all.
The singer eventually responded directly in the comments section of Instagram after the @BroadwayWorks account expressed hope that JoJo might still appear during the final weeks of performances.
“I’m manifesting that JoJo joins as the alternate for these last few weeks or something. She deserves some shows!!” the account commented.
JoJo then revealed that she had been scheduled to begin rehearsals the very same day the closure news became public.
“Was suppose to start first day of rehearsals TODAY. So bummed. All my love to the company,” she replied.
Her comment immediately fueled speculation that the actress and singer may have learned about the cancellation at nearly the same time as the public.
The abrupt development disappointed many theater fans who had been eager to see JoJo tackle the demanding role. The singer has steadily expanded her acting and theater résumé in recent years while simultaneously continuing her music career. Her Broadway return was viewed as another major step in that evolution.
Meanwhile, the revival of Chess had generated significant attention throughout its run, particularly due to Lea Michele’s involvement. The musical — known for its soaring score by ABBA members Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus alongside lyricist Tim Rice — remains one of Broadway’s most talked-about cult productions.
Although JoJo’s run in the show may no longer happen, fans online have continued rallying behind the singer, with many hoping another theater opportunity arrives quickly.
For now, JoJo appears focused on supporting the cast and company despite the disappointing turn of events. Still, her candid response offered a rare glimpse into how sudden and unpredictable the entertainment industry — especially live theater — can sometimes be behind the scenes.
