Immediately, speculation ran rampant that Michele would finally be tapped to play Fanny, and, on July 11, it was hello gorgeous, take two, when it was officially announced that she would, in fact, take over the leading role.
Of course, the news did not come without its own bit of backstage drama as Michele’s former Glee co-star Jane Lynch, who played Mrs. Brice in the revival, announced she would also be exiting the show earlier than anticipated, wrapping up her run before Michele’s debut. But Lynch, who was replaced by Tovah Feldshuh, set the record straight about her relationship with Michele.
“We have been in touch about it,” Lynch told Deadline in July. “You know, it was just a really strong idea to have Feldshuh and Lea premiere together. That’s the only reason [we won’t appear together.]”
She continued, “I adore her. She’s just going to take this show and make it her own. I’m so glad she’s getting the opportunity in real life to do the show and not just on Glee.”