Michelle Williams returns to Broadway with Death Becomes Her, embracing a bold new role and the spotlight despite being overlooked for a Tony nomination this year. Her comeback marks a triumphant chapter after years away from the stage, reigniting her presence in New York’s theater scene with Universal’s lively musical adaptation.
Michelle Williams’ Triumphant Broadway Comeback
Back on Broadway for the first time in seven years, Michelle Williams, once a member of Destiny’s Child, now embodies the enigmatic Viola Van Horne in Death Becomes Her. The musical, reimagined from the 1992 cult film, quickly became one of the season’s most celebrated shows, earning ten Tony nominations and tying for the highest number of nods. Though Williams’ name was not among the nominees announced in early May, she reflected on her journey and the meaning of her return to Broadway.
“But I was like: Girl, you’re back on Broadway after you didn’t think you ever would be. Who’s the winner? I’m still the winner! That fixed me.”
—Michelle Williams, Performer
A Flourishing Career in Music and Theater
Since Destiny’s Child ended, Williams set out on a path as a solo gospel artist, amassing hit singles and a dedicated following. Her love for the stage expanded into an accomplished theater career, beginning with her Broadway debut in Aida in 2003. Appearances in major productions like Chicago—on Broadway and in London’s West End—as well as The Color Purple and a tour with Jesus Christ Superstar, followed, solidifying her place as both a respected singer and performer.
In 2018, Williams joined the Tony-winning revival of Once On This Island, but only two weeks into her run, health concerns forced her to step away. Doctors urged her to focus on treatment for depression, and Williams found herself uncertain about her future in theater.
“I thought I was a liability,”
she admitted.
“I thought I would never be welcomed back into the theater community.”
—Michelle Williams, Performer
Becoming a Voice for Mental Health
Rather than let challenges halt her career, Williams transformed her experience into advocacy. She became a prominent public voice on mental health issues, speaking openly about her journey and authoring a memoir, Checking In: How Getting Real About Depression Saved My Life — and Can Save Yours, in 2021. Now, creating an original character in Death Becomes Her symbolizes not just a milestone in her performance career but also personal redemption.
“I don’t take it lightly, or for granted,”
she said. —Michelle Williams, Performer
Celebrations Backstage and Special Guests
The backstage atmosphere has been lively and fulfilling during Williams’ latest Broadway run. She has forged tight bonds with the cast and was able to welcome iconic visitor Isabella Rossellini, the actress who originally played Viola in the film version. In a widely shared moment, Emmy-winning actress Michelle Williams also visited, their first in-person encounter causing quite a stir online.
“It was a such a joy,”
Williams recalled. —Michelle Williams, Performer
In another heartwarming show of support, Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland cheered her on shortly after the November opening of Death Becomes Her. The reunion of Destiny’s Child members in the audience added another layer of meaning to Williams’ triumphant return.
“They make me grow. I love them as the wives and mothers, the artists and the friends that they are.”
—Michelle Williams, Performer
Embracing a Complex New Stage Role
Stepping into the role of Viola Van Horne challenges Williams to play against her well-known persona as a gospel singer and “the nice one.” She described initial reservations about portraying a character so different from herself, but also newfound excitement in doing so.
“I’m the opposite of Viola — unless you lie to me! — and at first I didn’t want people to think badly of me,”
Williams admitted.
“I’m the nice one! I’m the gospel artist! But now I’m trying to take advantage of getting to be Viola.”
—Michelle Williams, Performer
Williams brought creativity to her role by developing an imaginative backstory for Viola’s quest for immortality, blending humor and self-reflection.
“I know why I’d live forever,”
Williams said with a laugh.
“It’s because I’m nosy. I want to know everything and see everybody’s evolution.”
—Michelle Williams, Performer
Music, Advocacy, and Looking Ahead
Balancing her Broadway performances and mental health advocacy, Williams is uncertain when she will return to releasing music. Her last album, Journey to Freedom, dropped in 2014, but she hinted at possible new music down the road.
“I’m working with someone to possibly do an EP or something,”
she said.
“I don’t want to do it an album — I don’t think. You say that and then before you know it, you have 12 songs. We will see. I’ve just been enjoying using my gifts in other ways to impact people.”
—Michelle Williams, Performer
She added with her signature humor,
“But sometimes a hit song is a nice thing to have every now and then.”
—Michelle Williams, Performer
The Lasting Impact of Williams’ Return
Michelle Williams’ triumphant stage return with Death Becomes Her has not only marked a creative breakthrough but also reaffirmed her role as a champion for mental health and artistic versatility. With strong bonds to her fellow artists and an enthusiastic fanbase—including support from Beyoncé, Isabella Rossellini, and others—Williams demonstrates that perseverance and reinvention continue to define her journey in both theater and music. As she carves out new opportunities on stage and beyond, her presence promises lasting influence in the arts and broader conversations about resilience.
