Check out 15 Famous People Who Have Portrayed Roxie Hart in the Musical "Chicago" (Including 8 Past "Dancing with the Stars" Participants!)

The role of Roxie Hart in the iconic musical Chicago has attracted an impressive array of actresses, models, and reality TV personalities since the show first hit Broadway in 1975.

Gwen Verdon originated the character of Roxie Hart, a glamorous housewife who becomes an overnight media sensation after committing a shocking crime. The part has remained one of Broadways most coveted roles, celebrated for its intricate choreography, dark humor, and memorable musical numbers.

Over the decades, a variety of well-known performers have brought their own interpretations to Roxie, including Brooke Shields, Pamela Anderson, Erika Girardi, and Mira Sorvino. Sorvino described the role as a "childhood dream come true," highlighting Roxie's mix of innocence, charm, and moral ambiguity.

In February 2026, Whitney Leavitt, known from The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives and a former Dancing with the Stars contestant, will make her Broadway debut in the role. Her six-week engagement begins on February 2, marking her first professional theater appearance.

Notable Stars Who Have Played Roxie Hart

• Mira Sorvino Made her Broadway debut in 2025, describing the role as a lifelong dream.
• Ashley Graham The supermodel debuted as Roxie in 2025, revealing she had envisioned the part on her vision board six years earlier.
• Erika Girardi After a COVID-19 hiatus, the Real Housewives star returned in 2025, with her shows extended due to high demand.
• Ariana Madix Fulfilled a long-time goal by taking on Roxie in January 2024 following a top finish on DWTS.
• Angelica Ross Became the first openly transgender lead on Broadway when she played Roxie in 2022.
• Pamela Anderson Made her Broadway debut in 2022, portraying the infamous Roxie with a fresh perspective.
• Christie Brinkley Played Roxie three times between 2010 and 2019, bringing her modeling charisma to the stage.
• Mel B Starred in 20162017 for a limited run, even breaking character to honor her Spice Girls past.
• Rumer Willis Made her Broadway debut in 2015 after winning DWTS season 20.
• Brandy Norwood Her 2015 performance drew acclaim and an extended run due to audience demand.
• Michelle Williams Joined the Broadway cast in 2010 after performing Roxie in London, aiming to inject her personal touch into the role.
• Lisa Rinna Starred alongside husband Harry Hamlin in 2007, with the engagement extended due to popularity.
• Brooke Shields Played Roxie in a West End production in 2005 and had previously performed in multiple Broadway shows.
• Melanie Griffith Made her Broadway debut in 2003 and created a signature dance move for Hot Honey Rag.

The role of Roxie Hart continues to captivate audiences, offering each performer a chance to explore the character's complex blend of charm, ambition, and mischief. From Broadway veterans to reality TV stars, every actress brings a unique energy to the legendary part.

Author: Grace Ellison