Megan Thee Stallion was taken to the hospital after experiencing severe illness while performing in the Broadway production of Moulin Rouge! The Musical. She subsequently shared on social media that she had been pushing herself too hard recently.
A spokesperson disclosed to Variety that the singer started feeling unwell during Tuesday’s show, leading to an understudy stepping in to continue the performance. Medical professionals determined that extreme exhaustion, dehydration, vasoconstriction, and low metabolic levels were the reasons behind her condition. Megan Thee Stallion was discharged from the hospital and advised to rest.
On Instagram, the Grammy-winning artist announced her decision to skip the Wednesday matinee and evening shows to recuperate. She assured her fans that she would return to the stage on Thursday, fully rejuvenated and prepared to deliver a stellar performance.
Reflecting on the incident, Megan Thee Stallion admitted that she had been pushing herself beyond her limits, operating on empty, until her body signaled a halt. She expressed fear of fainting onstage and acknowledged her inability to power through the performance despite her efforts.
Making her Broadway debut as nightclub impresario Harold Zidler at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre, Megan Thee Stallion was scheduled to conclude her eight-week stint on May 17. Notable personalities who have previously portrayed Zidler include Boy George, Wayne Brady, Tituss Burgess, and Bob the Drag Queen.
In a groundbreaking move, Megan Thee Stallion became the first female performer to take on the role of MC in a professional production of Moulin Rouge! The Musical globally. Embracing this new creative challenge, she expressed excitement about venturing into the realm of theater and showcasing a different aspect of her talent to her fans.
Various musicians have faced hospitalization due to exhaustion in the past. For instance, the late Kiss lead guitarist Ace Frehley had to cancel a New York show in 2016 after being hospitalized for exhaustion. In 2013, Justin Bieber collapsed backstage during a London concert, requiring oxygen and hospitalization after completing the performance. Additionally, Mariah Carey sought medical attention for extreme exhaustion in 2001 due to her demanding work schedule.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical is set to conclude its seven-year run on July 26. The production, which revolves around the events at a Parisian nightclub in the early 1900s, features modern hits like Single Ladies and Firework alongside the classic track Lady Marmalade.