‘Much Ado About Nothing’ announces final Broadway casting

The full cast of Jamie Lloyd’s “Much Ado About Nothing” has been revealed ahead of its Broadway opening. The disco-infused revival of William Shakespeare’s comedy is helmed by three-time Tony Award-nominated director and Tony-winning “Sunset Boulevard” producer Lloyd. The production debuted in 2025 at London’s Theatre Royal Drury Lane and was nominated for the Olivier Award for Best Revival. The Broadway run of “Much Ado” is set to begin previews at the Winter Garden Theatre on Oct. 31 ahead of its Nov. 19 opening. 

Newly confirmed for the cast of “Much Ado” are understudies Franklin Bongjio, Michael Iván Carrier, Beth Elliott, Marlon Alexander Vargas and Ed White. 

Bongjio will serve as understudy for the roles of Leonato and Friar Francis. Bongjio previously appeared in Lloyd’s Broadway revivals of “Waiting for Godot” and “A Doll’s House.” Carrier, the understudy for Margaret, originated the role of Thomas in Broadway’s “& Juliet.” Elliott, the understudy for Beatrice and Hero, previously served as a cover for Beatrice in the West End production of “Much Ado.” 

Vargas will serve as understudy for Claudio and Borachio. He previously appeared in “Littleboy/Littleman” at Los Angeles’ Geffen Playhouse. White, formerly the cover for Benedick in the West End production of “Much Ado,” will understudy Benedick, Don Pedro and Don John on Broadway and also serve as the company’s dance captain. 

They join previously announced cast members Hayley Atwell as Beatrice, Tony nominee Tom Hiddleston as Benedick (who also earned an Olivier nod for his performance of the role in the West End), Mara Huf as Hero, Mika Onyx Johnson as Borachio, Gerald Kyd as Don Pedro, Forbes Masson as Leonato, Phillip Olagoke as Friar Francis, Mason Alexander Park as Margaret, James Phoon as Claudio and Tim Steed as Don John, all reprising their roles from the West End mounting. 

“Much Ado About Nothing” is being produced on Broadway by the Jamie Lloyd Company.