Billy Porter ends ‘Cabaret’ run on Broadway due to sepsis diagnosis

Posted On September 8, 2025September 8, 2025

Billy Porter has ended his role in the Broadway production of Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club after being diagnosed with sepsis.

In the production, Porter began his role as Emcee in July and was due to continue until the end of the run on October 19th. However, in light of Porter’s illness, Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club will now end a month early on September 19th.

In a statement, the Broadway play shared on Instagram: “Due to a serious case of sepsis, Billy Porter must also withdraw from the production. His doctors are confident that he will make a full recovery but have advised him to maintain a restful schedule.”

They continued, “Marty Lauter and David Merino will perform as Emcee for the final 2 weeks. Performance schedule to be announced.”

Meanwhile, in a separate statement, the show’s producer, Adam Speers, said of Porter: “Billy was an extraordinary Emcee, bringing his signature passion and remarkable talent. We wish Billy a speedy recovery, and I look forward to working with him again in the very near future.”

Since opening on Broadway in April 2024, a series of huge names have enjoyed runs at the Kit Kat Club, including Eddie Redmayne and Orville Peck.

Porter, who is also set to appear in the upcoming blockbuster The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, was forced to pull out of Manchester Pride on August 23rd due to illness, which was unspecified at the time.

Hours before Porter was due to perform, Manchester Pride said in a statement: “Get well soon Billy, we hope you have a speedy recovery. Thanks for your understanding and for being part of the Manchester Pride community. We can’t wait to celebrate with you.”

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