Hugh Jackman tests positive for COVID prompting ‘The Music Man’ to cancel performances

Hugh Jackman, best known for playing Wolverine/Logan in the X-Men film series, on Tuesday said that he has tested positive for COVID-19. With the 53-year-old not available, ‘The Music Man’ cancelled its Broadway performances through January 1. 

Jackman, in a social media video, said that he has a scratchy throat and a ‘bit of a’ runny nose. However, the actor added that he is looking forward to getting back on stage. 

Also read: Hugh Jackman makes his Broadway comeback. Watch

“I just wanted to make sure you heard this from me. I tested positive for COVID. Mild symptoms and looking forward to getting back on stage ASAP!” the caption to the video read.

“My symptoms are like a cold. I have a scratchy throat and a bit of a runny nose, but I’m fine,” two-time Tony Award winner said during the video.

“Please stay safe, be healthy, be kind,” he added.

‘The Music Man’ is the revival of Meredith Wilson’s classic musical and one of the hottest tickets on Broadway. However, it has struggled to keep its cast and crew away from the coronavirus. 

Also read: Atlanta’s New Year’s Peach Drop cancelled due to COVID spike

 Jackman’s co-star, Sutton Foster, also missed several performances after testing positive for COVID-19. She will return on January 2. The Wolverine star, on the other hand, is expected to join the crew on January 6. 

Several Broadway shows were forced to cancel performances due to COVID-19. These include the likes of ‘Aladdin’, ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’,  ‘Hamilton’ and ‘The Lion King’. Productions such as ‘Ain’t Too Proud’, ‘Jagged Little Pill’ and ‘Waitress’ ended their runs early. 

Also read: Donald Trump Jr. criticises Dr Fauci for supporting vaccine mandate on US flights

Recently, Jackman paid tribute to understudies on Broadway. In a video posted on social media, he could be seen asking them to join him on stage. The actor called them “the bedrock of Broadway.”

“I’m emotional because it humbles me. Their courage, their brilliance, their dedication, their talent. The swings, the understudies, they are the bedrock of Broadway,” he said.