Ariana DeBose might just be trading her Oscar for a “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” moment. Yep, the queen of jazz hands and breathtaking talent is reportedly in talks to star in a London revival of Evita. And guess what? Broadway legend Patti LuPone has entered the chat—and she’s bringing emojis.
Ariana’s Audition for World Domination
If you’ve been living under a rock or (worse) ignoring musical theater, Ariana DeBose is a big deal. Like, “EGOT-in-training” big deal. She’s got an Oscar for West Side Story (because, obviously), a Tony nomination for Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, and a résumé so packed it might have its own Equity card: Hamilton, Pippin, A Bronx Tale. Basically, Ariana is booked, blessed, and Broadway-bred.
But here’s the kicker: she hasn’t graced a musical stage since 2018’s Summer. (In theater years, that’s like… a century.) So, when asked about taking on the role of Eva Perón, Ariana played it cool but cryptic: “Fingers crossed. We’re 70% there,” she told Deadline. Translation: “Let me finish reviewing the rider in my contract—because this diva needs sparkling water and vegan empanadas backstage.”
The Jamie Lloyd Factor
The revival is reportedly being directed by Jamie Lloyd, who’s basically the David Blaine of theater: he takes classic works and makes them edgy, raw, and Instagram-worthy. The show is set for a snazzy 12-week run in London from June 14 to September 6. So, if you’ve got vacation plans, cancel them now.
Ariana is also hyped about the production’s “new vision,” saying it’s crucial to find a fresh take for today’s audiences. In musical terms, this means we might be getting an Eva Perón who moonwalks into the Casa Rosada or, at the very least, rocks Balenciaga. Stay tuned.
Patti LuPone: The OG Evita Spills the Mate
Let’s not forget Patti LuPone, the original Broadway Eva Perón, who sang “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” like her life depended on it—and probably terrified some chandeliers in the process. Patti’s reaction to the news? Delightfully Patti.
“I think Ariana DeBose is going to play Evita,” Patti said on SiriusXM’s Andy Cohen Live. “I wrote to her. I said, ‘Are you doing it? Fabulous.’” (Translation: You better slay, girl.)
Patti then added, “I don’t know whether she signed her contract. I don’t know whether we’re talking out of turn.” Which is Broadway-speak for, “Oops, did I just spill the tea? Oh well.”
The Bottom Line
If this revival actually happens, prepare yourselves for Ariana DeBose to light up London’s West End like Eva Perón lit up Argentina’s political scene. And if Patti LuPone shows up in the audience? Ariana better belt out those high notes extra loud because Patti will be listening—and probably critiquing.
Stay tuned for more updates, and maybe start practicing your standing ovation now. 🎭