Jinkx Monsoon, a two-time champion of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and “Drag Race All Stars,” made a splashy announcement Wednesday—she’s stepping into the lead role in the uproariously irreverent, Tony-winning Broadway hit “Oh, Mary!” this summer.
The show’s current star, Cole Escola, recently snagged the Tony Award for Best Lead Actor in a Play for the very role Monsoon will inherit. Escola also happens to be the brilliant mind behind the play’s creation. Monsoon didn’t hold back her admiration, calling Escola a “genius” and declaring “Oh, Mary!” as “one of the best things I’ve ever seen.”
“Cole is easily the funniest person alive,” Monsoon gushed, “and I’m just lucky to be alive at the same time.”
A gleeful piece of historical satire, “Oh, Mary!” reimagines the Lincoln White House in a surreal, off-the-rails farce. The show centers on the chaotic relationship between Abraham Lincoln—depicted here with strong insinuations of closeted sexuality—and his disorderly, perpetually inebriated wife, Mary Todd. The narrative builds toward that infamous night at Ford’s Theatre, but with a delightfully twisted lens.
Monsoon will take the stage from August 4 through September 27, following a stint by actor and singer Tituss Burgess. Escola originally debuted the role last summer and performed until January, later returning in April for a limited engagement that ends this weekend.
For fans of theatrical brilliance and biting comedy, Monsoon’s casting is a dream come true. During her time in the “Drag Race” universe, Monsoon earned a devoted following for her quick wit, musical chops, and unmatched comedic timing—particularly during the fan-favorite Snatch Game challenges, where her impersonations (including a hauntingly hilarious Edie Beale) became instant classics.
But her talents go far beyond the drag stage. Monsoon has carved out a thriving theater career, appearing both on and off Broadway. She earned rave reviews during her run as Matron “Mama” Morton in Chicago and is currently charming audiences in Pirates! The Penzance Musical. She’s also played Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors off-Broadway, adding yet another feather to her already dazzling cap.
And let’s not forget the holidays—Monsoon and fellow Drag Race alum BenDeLaCreme co-headline a beloved seasonal show that tours annually, mixing drag, theater, and festive cheer into one fabulous performance.
With this new Broadway chapter, Monsoon isn’t just stepping into a Tony-winning role—she’s taking on a character written to be wild, messy, and unapologetically chaotic. It’s the perfect fit for a performer who thrives on unpredictability and theatrical flair. Expect wigs, wit, and a whole lot of whiskey-soaked drama as Jinkx Monsoon brings her signature brilliance to “Oh, Mary!” on Broadway.