Ariana Grande will no longer appear in the upcoming London revival of Sunday in the Park With George, ending what would have been one of the most anticipated stage reunions with her Wicked co-star Jonathan Bailey. The singer and actor has decided to step away from the production as part of a broader break from public-facing work following the conclusion of her The Eternal Sunshine Tour. While the news disappointed fans hoping to see the pair share the stage, producers have confirmed that the musical itself remains firmly on schedule.
The Stephen Sondheim classic is still expected to premiere at London’s Barbican in summer 2027, with a new lead casting announcement set to arrive at a later date. Grande’s departure means the production will now search for a new performer to take on the dual roles of Dot and Marie opposite Bailey’s George Seurat.
Ariana Grande Steps Away After Her Tour
Grande had been expected to begin work on the revival after wrapping up the final leg of The Eternal Sunshine Tour, which concludes in the United Kingdom on September 1. However, representatives for the singer confirmed that she has chosen to take a step back from public appearances after the tour, a decision that also includes leaving the theatre production.
According to her representatives, “She looks forward to finishing the tour and ending it on a high note, both healthily and happily, and then taking a much-deserved break from public-facing work and appearances, which has led to endless, ongoing public scrutiny.” The statement did not indicate how long Grande plans to remain away from the spotlight.
The decision comes after years of intense public attention surrounding the singer. In recent years, fans have frequently expressed concern about her wellbeing and appearance. Grande has also previously spoken about being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, in which 22 people lost their lives after one of her concerts.
Producers Confirm the Revival Will Continue
Despite losing one of its biggest stars, the production team has made it clear that the revival will move forward without delay. Responding to the announcement, representatives for Empire Street Productions confirmed, “The production will open at the Barbican in summer 2027 as planned, and casting will be announced in due course.”
The producers also offered their support for Grande’s decision, saying, “We wish her nothing but the best. We know this cannot have been an easy decision, and she makes it with our complete understanding and support.” Their statement suggests that the creative team had been informed of her plans before the public announcement.
Directed by Tony and Olivier Award winner Marianne Elliott, the revival has continued its preparations in London, with ensemble auditions already taking place. Designed by Tom Scutt, the production remains one of the most anticipated theatre events of 2027 despite the unexpected casting change.
What’s Next for Ariana Grande?
Before stepping away from public-facing projects, Grande still has one major commitment to complete. Alongside finishing her world tour, she is attached to Focker-in-Law, the upcoming comedy starring Robert De Niro and Ben Stiller, which is scheduled for release over the Thanksgiving holiday. It remains unclear whether she will take part in promotional activities for the film as part of her planned break.
Grande’s exit from Sunday in the Park With George marks a significant change for a production that had generated excitement largely because it reunited the Wicked co-stars in a live theatrical setting. While fans will have to wait to discover who replaces her, the revival itself remains on track, ensuring Stephen Sondheim’s celebrated musical will still return to the London stage next summer with Jonathan Bailey leading the cast.
