Audra McDonald just proved that even Broadway icons have to draw the line sometimes. Known for her work on shows like “Private Practice” and “The Gilded Age,” the six-time Tony winner hopped on Instagram. Her goal? To share a scary encounter that left her shaken after a recent performance of “Gypsy.” And let’s be real; what happened is the kind of thing no performer (or person) should have to deal with after work.
Want to see her post for yourself? Check it out here.
Stage Door is Not a Free Pass
McDonald explained in her video that she’s decided not to sign autographs at the stage door during her “Gypsy” run, according to Page Six,. It’s not about being ungrateful; she’s giving everything she’s got under the spotlight, and that’s plenty. But a few nights ago, a fan ignored that boundary and things got uncomfortable fast.
McDonald shared that someone followed her around the back, trailed her to where she was staying, and even “got into the building,” standing way too close for comfort. Security had to get involved when the fan insisted that since they had traveled a distance, they were “owed” an autograph.
McDonald didn’t hesitate to tell it like it was: “That is crossing a big old boundary, and I just want to call that out. That’s a big no-no. That’s now messing with my safety, and it’s not right.”
Getty (Arturo Holmes)Fans Have Her Back
On Instagram, McDonald captioned her video “Some thoughts on boundaries. 🙏🏾🌹” and fans wasted no time filling the comments with love and support.
One person summed it up perfectly: “So glad I saw Gypsy twice! I felt you gave me your all on that stage. That’s plenty! Thank you!” Another cut right to the chase: “God. I need people to learn stagedoor etiquette or stay tf away.”
Plenty of theatergoers also pointed out that respecting boundaries doesn’t make you less of a fan. “I have even come from another country to see shows but like I could never think like that. Some performances are really complex and I get u wanna rest! Hope you’re doing better queen.”
This fan even chimed in with a sentiment we can all agree on: “You deserve all the peace and quiet after work just like everyone else does when they get off work.”
Protecting Peace Over Pressure
Audra McDonald’s message is clear: performing eight shows a week is more than enough, and she doesn’t owe anyone her time once the curtain falls. Traveling to see a show is an amazing experience, but it doesn’t give anyone a free pass to cross personal boundaries.
She’s prioritizing her safety and her peace; and that deserves a standing ovation of its own.
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Audra McDonald Protects Her Peace After Scary Fan Encounter