Brendan Fraser is taking a step back just weeks after his next project was announced.
The Mummy alum, who was scheduled to star as Jerry in the world premiere of the play Grangeville, written by Samuel D. Hunter and directed by Jack Serio, at New York City’s Off-Broadway Signature Theatre, has dropped out of the production due to “unforeseen circumstances.”
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The show’s two-person cast was first announced on the theater’s Instagram page on Dec. 5, 2024, and Fraser was showcased again on Christmas Eve. However, Paul Sparks, known for his work in Boardwalk Empire, has stepped in to fill the vacant role. He joins Brian J. Smith as Arnold.
Sparks previously starred at Signature in 2018’s At Home at the Zoo and was more recently seen in Grey House on Broadway in 2023.
The theater didn’t offer any additional information about Fraser’s need to drop out and, as the actor is not on social media, he hasn’t spoken out directly either.
Fans were torn by the news, with one succinctly summarizing the general consensus of, “Dang but also yes!.”
“Sad about Brendan and hope everything is alright,” wrote another, before admitting that either way they’re “always thrilled about a new Sam Hunter play. Paul will be great!”
“Hope Brendan is ok!!” another commented with concern, before someone else pointed out how “fantastic” Sparks was in Grey House. “Excited to see him in this,” they added.
Grangeville is a limited engagement, premiering on Feb. 4, 2025, and ending on March 16.
Next: Brendan Fraser Recalls Near-Death Experience on The Mummy Set
