Anthony Newfield to Perform Tony Roberts’ Role in October 6 Royal Family

Understudy Anthony Newfield will play the role of Oscar Wolfe in the Tuesday, October 6 performance of Manhattan Theatre Club’s production of The Royal Family, covering for actor Tony Roberts, who is recovering from a minor seizure. No decision has been made yet as to when Roberts will return to the show, which will open officially on Thursday, October 8.

As previously reported, Roberts was rushed to the hospital on Sunday afternoon after falling ill during the matinee performance of the Broadway revival of the George S. Kaufman-Edna Ferber play about a theatrical family. The matinee performance was canceled, and Newfield played the role of Oscar at the show’s Sunday evening performance.

Earlier today, Roberts’ daughter Nicole issued a statement, saying “My father is feeling great and looks forward to returning to the show. He experienced a minor seizure and regrets that it had to happen so publicly. He is taking medication now which should prevent any further incidents. He is grateful for the impeccable and thorough care he received at St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital, and feels especially thankful for all the good wishes that have come flooding in since Sunday afternoon.”

A previous statement released by Lynne Meadow and Barry Grove on behalf of Manhattan Theatre Club read in part: “We hope for Tony Roberts’ quick and complete recovery. Tony is beloved to us at MTC, to The Royal Family company, and to his enormous fan base everywhere.”

The play also stars Rosemary Harris, Jan Maxwell, John Glover, Ana Gasteyer, Reg Rogers, and Larry Pine.