The curtain has risen on Broadway, showcasing the much-anticipated debut of Julianna Margulies and George Clooney, two stars famed for their captivating performances on screen, now stepping onto the Great White Way. Margulies, renowned for her role as Carol Hathaway on ER, stars alongside Peter Gallagher in Left on Tenth, which premiered at the James Earl Jones Theatre. Meanwhile, Clooney, making his Broadway debut with the stage adaptation of his film Good Night, and Good Luck, is scheduled to take the stage starting Spring 2025.
At the opening night event of Left on Tenth, Margulies expressed her excitement and pride for Clooney’s new venture. Speaking exclusively with PEOPLE, she mentioned having emailed him to convey her support. Margulies said, "I just emailed him and said, ‘I’m so proud of you. You don’t have to do this.’" This heartfelt message highlights the bond formed between the two actors during their time on ER, which ran for 15 seasons from 1994 to 2009.
Margulies emphasized the challenges of performing on stage compared to screen acting, admitting, "It’s scary, you know, being on Broadway. And the world we live in now, everyone’s a judge, and you have to block all of it out and do your work." She praised Clooney's decision to take such a difficult path, saying she’s genuinely impressed with his commitment.
Her Broadway play, Left on Tenth, is based on Delia Ephron's memoir, recounting her personal and professional life. The story encompasses themes of love, loss, and second chances—something Margulies relates to deeply. Directed by Susan Stroman, the production interweaves humor and poignant experiences faced by Ephron as she navigates life after the death of her husband.
Margulies portrays Delia, who finds herself grappling not just with her grief but also with the hilarious chaos of dealing with her internet provider after they mistakenly cancel her service. This mix of comedy and tragedy strikes a chord with audiences, as it reflects the often tumultuous path of recovery following loss.
Setting the stage for the account of second chances, the play brings together Margulies with Gallagher—a pairing expected to create notable chemistry. Critics have praised the show for its ability to resonate with viewers, thanks to Ephron's heartfelt writing, Stroman's adept direction, and the actors’ performances.
On the other hand, George Clooney's upcoming role sees him returning to the stage after years away, building anticipation among fans. Good Night, and Good Luck dramatizes the historical showdown between journalist Edward R. Murrow and Senator Joe McCarthy during the Red Scare, focusing on themes of integrity and journalistic truth. Clooney starred as Fred W. Friendly, Murrow's co-producer, adding depth to the already iconic narrative.
Clooney's excitement is palpable as he announced his return to the stage, stating, "I am honored, after all these years, to be coming back to the stage and especially to Broadway, the art form and the venue every actor aspires to." This sentiment echoes across the theater community as they welcome the addition of such powerhouse names and notable narratives to the Broadway scene.
Both actors have maintained their friendship over the years, reminiscing about their shared experiences on set and recalling how they still refer to each other by their character names. Margulies remarked, “To this day, we still sign our personal emails to each other ‘Love, Carol’ or ‘Doug.’" Their bond signifies the deep connections forged through years of collaboration, which many fans find endearing and meaningful.
Margulies' career has seen her transition from the medical world of ER to the throne of Broadway, capturing hearts with her versatility. Her performance as Delia showcases her ability to balance comedy with serious themes, effectively drawing the audience’s empathy and laughter.
Critics and audiences alike anticipate the harmony of laughter and poignant storytelling, which Margulies and her team have crafted. The production of Left on Tenth is seen as not just entertainment, but as insightful exploration of the complex layers of human experience, love, and the beauty of reconnecting with life after despair.
The Broadway community eagerly weighs the potential of George Clooney's forthcoming venture, with whispers of whether he can capture the magic of live theater as he did on the silver screen. With two seasoned actors stepping onto this grand stage, both productions—Left on Tenth and Good Night, and Good Luck—are set to capture the hearts and minds of those seeking inspiration and entertainment.
