Geno Segers apologises after losing ‘Hadestown’ role over resurfaced comments

Broadway actor Geno Segers has issued a public apology after losing his role in Hadestown following backlash over resurfaced social media comments about transgender people. The actor said he accepts full responsibility for his words, acknowledged the impact they had on others and pledged to educate himself after producers confirmed that he would no longer join the acclaimed Broadway production.

Segers had recently been announced as the new actor to play Hades in Hadestown, joining a cast that includes Amber Iman, Jasmin Savoy Brown and Norbert Leo Butz. However, shortly after the casting announcement, older videos and social media posts resurfaced online in which Segers expressed views about transgender identities, pronouns and transgender athletes competing in women's sports.

The comments prompted criticism across social media and theatre communities, with many questioning his casting in a production widely recognised for its inclusive values. As the backlash grew, the producers of Hadestown announced that they had mutually agreed with Segers that he would no longer join the Broadway company. They added that replacement casting would be announced at a later date.

Following his departure, Segers addressed the controversy in a statement shared on Instagram.

"I wish to extend my most sincere apologies to everyone impacted by my words," he wrote. "While I never intended to inflict harm, I recognise that the impact of my statements is what matters most."

The actor also said he is committed to listening, continuing his education and holding himself to a higher standard moving forward.

"I am fully committed to listening, educating myself, and elevating my standards. I will work tirelessly to earn the opportunity to make things right," Segers added.

He went on to apologise directly to the cast, creative team and producers of Hadestown, acknowledging the disruption the controversy had caused the production.

"I accept full responsibility for my words and acknowledge the necessity of immediate accountability," he said.

Segers also expressed support for the people continuing with the production despite his exit.

"I extend my wholehearted support to the cast, crew, and my replacement. I wish you all tremendous success during your run. I have complete confidence that each of you will be phenomenal."

Neither Segers nor the Hadestown production has indicated whether there were further discussions beyond the mutual agreement announced publicly. The production has since shifted its attention to naming a new performer for the role of Hades.