Sherri Shepherd is stepping into a whole new world — and making Broadway history along the way.

The actress, comedian and television personality announced Tuesday that she will take on the role of Genie in Disney’s Broadway production of Aladdin, becoming the first woman to play the iconic character in the production.

Shepherd will begin her limited engagement at Broadway’s New Amsterdam Theatre on Oct. 16 and is scheduled to remain with the show through Jan. 3, 2027.

“Well… THE SECRET IS OUT! I’ve got a whole new kind of magic up my sleeve!” Shepherd shared while announcing the news on social media.

The 59-year-old entertainer celebrated the milestone while reflecting on a career that has taken her from comedy clubs and television to film, daytime talk and now back to Broadway.

Shepherd is no stranger to the Broadway stage. In 2014, she appeared as Madame, the wicked stepmother, in Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella. Her upcoming run in Aladdin, however, places her in a role traditionally performed by men and gives the longtime entertainer an opportunity to put her own comedic spin on one of Disney’s most recognizable characters.

The announcement also marks a major new chapter for Shepherd following the conclusion of her daytime talk show, Sherri. The syndicated series ended its four-season run in May 2026.

Based on Disney’s 1992 animated film, Aladdin follows a young man living in Agrabah whose life changes after discovering a magical lamp containing Genie, who grants him three wishes. The Broadway adaptation opened at the New Amsterdam Theatre in 2014 and features music by Alan Menken, with lyrics by Howard Ashman, Tim Rice and Chad Beguelin.

For Shepherd, the history-making casting represents another evolution in a career that has continuously crossed entertainment formats.

From daytime television to Broadway’s magic carpet, Sherri Shepherd’s next act is officially taking center stage.

The Prince Report