Billy Porter is forced to quit Broadway’s Cabaret due to ‘serious case’ of sepsis

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A Tony-winning actor, Billy Porter, has decided to leave his role in Broadway’s Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club following a severe bout of sepsis, as stated by the show’s producers.

On Sunday, it was disclosed that the 55-year-old actor’s physicians recommended he focus on resting, which is why production confirmed this decision.

Despite the anticipation of his complete recuperation, the leading actor won’t be resuming his position as the Emcee anymore.

According to the statement reported by The New York Times, his doctors are optimistic about his complete recovery and recommend that he follow a relaxed routine for the upcoming two weeks.

Adam Speers, the producer from ATG Productions, highly commended Billy Porter’s role in the production, stating: ‘Billy was an exceptional host, displaying his unique enthusiasm and outstanding skill. We hope for a quick recovery for Billy, and I eagerly anticipate collaborating with him once again soon.’

As a lifestyle expert, I’d put it this way: It was planned for me (Porter) to grace the stage until October 19, however, my unexpected departure necessitates an earlier conclusion of the Tony Award-winning revival than initially scheduled.

The last show of the production is scheduled for Sunday, September 21st, bringing an end to a span of 18 preview shows and 592 regular performances at the August Wilson Theatre.

In the upcoming shows, the Emcee position will be jointly handled by seasoned substitutes, Marty Lauter and David Merino.

Marisha Wallace, who took on the Broadway stage alongside Porter in July following their collaboration in London, will continue her role within the show until its finale.

Sepsis refers to a serious health situation where the body’s defense mechanisms overreact to an infection, causing extensive swelling throughout the body and potentially leading to organ dysfunction or failure.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend prompt medical attention for sepsis, which includes administering antibiotics intravenously, providing IV fluids, and closely monitoring the patient in a hospital setting.

Early signs of sepsis can include fever, rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing or confusion.

Severe cases may escalate into septic shock, which can be fatal without urgent intervention. 

Those who have compromised immune systems or pre-existing health issues tend to be more vulnerable to this condition.

In 2021, Porter revealed he has been living with HIV since 2007.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, he shared his struggles. He stated that his generation was expected to be wiser, yet events unfolded regardless. For him, the year 2007 turned out to be the most difficult of his life. By February, he received a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes. In March, he filed for bankruptcy, and by June, he was diagnosed as HIV-positive.

He further explained: ‘The embarrassment of that period, adding to the embarrassment I’d already experienced, left me speechless, and for the past 14 years, I’ve carried this shame quietly. Being HIV-positive, given my upbringing in a Pentecostal community with a deeply religious family, was seen as divine retribution.’

After spending numerous years concealing his health issue, the artist, famed for his portrayal on the successful TV show “Pose”, articulated that revealing the truth served as a means of recovery or healing.

Throughout his professional journey, Porter has garnered an Emmy, Grammy, Tony Award, and been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

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2025-09-07 21:19