Eartha Kitt to Replace Chita Rivera in Nine

It has just been confirmed that the legendary Eartha Kitt, who last appeared on Broadway in The Wild Party in 2000, will join the Roundabout Theatre Company’s award-winning revival of Nine on October 7. She will assume the role of Liliane La Fleur, the former Follies chanteuse who is producing Guido Contini’s latest film; the part is currently being played by Chita Rivera.

Kitt shot to stardom with her performance of the song “Monotonous” in Leonard Silliman’s New Faces of 1952. She has also appeared on Broadway in Bal Negre, Mrs. Patterson, Shinbone Alley, Jolly’s Progress, Timbuktu!, and The Wild Party, receiving Tony nominations for her performances in the last two shows on that list. Kitt also starred in the London production of Stephen Sondheim’s Follies and has appeared in many movies and television shows, including the 1960s Batman series.

Two other new cast members will join Nine on October 7: John Stamos will replace Antonio Banderas as Guido and Jenna Elfman will replace Jane Krakowski as Carla. Rebecca Luker recently joined the company as Claudia, replacing Laura Benanti.