Brenda Edwards has issued a defiant message to fans in the aftermath of her being confirmed to replace Gemma Collins in Chicago.
The news that former Celebrity Big Brother star Gemma had been cast as Mama Morton in the world famous musical certainly caused a stir both in the industry and online, with critics queuing up to question producers' decision. Gemma waxed lyrical about how excited she was to be following in the footsteps of the likes of Sam Bailey, Mica Paris and Brenda herself by playing the iconic role, sharing a series of excited posts on social media.
So it came as a surprise when, with exactly a week to go until her planned debut as Mama Morton at the Sunderland Empire on May 31, it was announced that Gemma had pulled out of the show, not just in Sunderland, but the whole tour, due to a flare up to an injury he sustained after falling on Dancing on Ice three years ago.
Confirming her exit, a spokesperson for Chicago told ChronicleLive: "Gemma Collins’ management have informed the producers of Chicago she will no longer be appearing in the UK Tour of the show due to a knee injury. The Producers of Chicago wish Gemma all the best for the future."
The minute news broke of Gemma quitting Chicago, speculation was rife as to who would replace her and, on Friday, it was confirmed that it will be former X Factor star and Hairspray and We Will Rock You actress Brenda who replaces her.
Many fans were delighted by the announcement, whereas Brenda had just two words for them: "Mama's back," as she shared on photo of herself in the role, which was her first theatre job after her TV stardom.
Fellow West End star Marisha Wallace reacted: "Now THIS is what I am talking about!’ Collabro singer Jamie Lambert told her: "Have a good one darling!" And a theatre fan responded: "Never seen Chicago on stage but knowing that Brenda's going to be reprising her role is to me a great reason to buy tickets Mama Morton with attitude and sparkle."
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