Olympic gymnast Laurie Hernandez makes Broadway debut in ‘& Juliet’

Olympic gold medallist Laurie Hernandez has officially stepped onto the Broadway stage, making her debut in the hit musical & Juliet beginning March 17 at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre.

Hernandez, best known as part of the “Final Five” U.S. women’s gymnastics team at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she won gold and silver medals, is taking on the featured dance role of Charmion in the production. Her run in the show is set to be limited, continuing through June 14.

The transition from elite sport to live theatre marks a significant moment in Hernandez’s career, adding Broadway performer to a résumé that already includes Olympic success and a win on Dancing With the Stars. In a statement shared ahead of her debut, Hernandez described the opportunity as a long-held dream, saying she had always been a fan of Broadway and was excited to join the cast of a show she already loved as an audience member.

& Juliet reimagines the classic story of William Shakespeare’s Juliet, exploring what might have happened if her story had taken a different turn. The musical features a catalogue of well-known pop songs written by Max Martin, including hits like ‘Since U Been Gone’ and ‘Roar’, blending familiar music with a fresh narrative twist.

The current Broadway cast includes performers such as Gianna Harris in the title role, alongside James Monroe Iglehart, Alison Luff and Drew Gehling. Hernandez joins the ensemble, bringing her athleticism and performance background to a role that emphasises movement and stage presence.

Her arrival has already sparked excitement among fans online, particularly those who have followed her journey from gymnastics to television and now theatre. Social media reactions have highlighted her versatility, with many praising her ability to cross into a completely different performance world while maintaining the charisma that made her a standout athlete.

The production itself has remained a strong presence on Broadway since opening in November 2022, earning multiple Tony Award nominations and becoming one of the more recognisable modern jukebox musicals. Hernandez’s addition adds a fresh layer of interest as the show continues its successful run.