Sheridan Smith Quits Bridget Jones The Musical?

At the moment I would like to point out that nothing has been confirmed but apparently Sheridan Smith has pulled out of the new musical adaptation of Bridget Jones. The show was meant to be opening at the Savoy Theatre (the same venue where Sheridan played Elle Woods in Legally Blonde) towards the end of this year. However now the show has been pushed back until next year. According to the Daily Mail the reason Sheridan left is because of her film and TV work.

Up until now Sheridan has always managed to balance TV, Film & Theatre which is why I admire her so much. She has, to me, the perfect career.

Sheridan took part in all the workshops for the new musical while it was in development and at the time all her tweets sounded positive.


Fellow actress, Alice Fearn, who also participated in these workshops has tweeted to show how surprised she is:

'Have to say I'm shocked if true!! She was HILARIOUS at it, But if Hollywood beckons... #BridgetJonesthemusical'

'What's going on there...?! Bit of a blow for them I'm sure'

So, then this brings us on to who will now take over the role if they don't manage to convince Sheridan to return? Well, incidentally I think Alice Fearn could be perfect for the role! Another big name might not want to 'replace' such a star like Sheridan Smith so someone like Alice Fearn would be great! She has an amazing voice and when I saw her play Princess Fiona in Shrek The Musical she had great comical timing and really stood out on the stage. Could Alice play Bridgit Jones? She is currently quite busy with Shrek and filming the Les Mis film however if the production is put off until early next year then it could be perfect!

Then what about Louise Dearman? The timing would be about right as she will have finished promoting her album and completed her Olivier Awards duties. She has an amazingly adaptable voice, so it would be great hearing her sing more pop musical theatre songs, which would contrast with Wicked (where she recently finished playing Glinda - but you new that already). She is also popular with fans, and at this moment in time is 2nd on our poll for who you would like to see return to the west end! 

My final suggestion is Natalie Casey. She is currently in Abigail's Party at the Theatre Royal and recently played Paulette in Legally Blonde. While some people were not to keen on her I thought she was absolutely hilarious! And she has an incredible strong voice! But would the producers be willing to take the risk?

Click here to read the Daily Mail article about Sheridan pulling out of Bridget Jones.