Neil Patrick Harris to Star in ‘Damn Yankees’ Revival on Broadway

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Published: 2026-09-27T20:18:16.567Z • Permanent link

Neil Patrick Harris is set to star in a new production of the 1955 musical 'Damn Yankees' on Broadway, playing the role of the Devil alongside Julianne Hough and Austin Scott. The Tony- and Emmy-winning actor's involvement in the revival has generated significant buzz among theater enthusiasts and fans of the original musical. Harris's casting marks a significant departure from the traditional Devil character, which has been played by several actors over the years, including Tab Hunter in the 1958 film adaptation.

The revival is being produced by Roundabout Theatre Company, which has a long history of staging innovative productions of classic musicals. The company's artistic director, Todd Haimes, has stated that the revival will feature a new book, music, and lyrics that update the original story while remaining faithful to its core themes and characters. The production is scheduled to open at Studio 54 in May 2024, with pre-sales already underway for select performances.

Harris's involvement in the project is likely to draw attention from fans of his previous work, including his iconic roles in 'Doogie Howser, M.D.' and 'How I Met Your Mother.' His commitment to the project also underscores the enduring appeal of 'Damn Yankees,' which has become a beloved classic of American musical theater. As one of the most successful Broadway musicals of the 1950s, 'Damn Yankees' has inspired numerous revivals and adaptations over the years, and its influence can still be seen in many modern musicals.

The revival of 'Damn Yankees' is likely to have a significant impact on the world of musical theater, particularly in the area of Broadway productions. The show's updated production values and innovative staging are likely to draw in new audiences and reinvigorate interest in the classic musical. Harris's involvement in the project also underscores the importance of casting in musical theater, which can be a major factor in determining the success of a production.

For companies like Roundabout Theatre Company, the revival of 'Damn Yankees' represents a major opportunity to showcase their talents and attract new audiences. The production's updated themes and characters are also likely to resonate with contemporary audiences, who are increasingly looking for musicals that tackle complex issues and push the boundaries of storytelling. As a result, the revival of 'Damn Yankees' is likely to be seen as a significant development in the world of musical theater, with far-reaching implications for companies and audiences alike.

The revival of 'Damn Yankees' can be seen as part of a larger trend in musical theater, which has seen a resurgence of interest in classic shows and revivals of iconic productions. This trend is also reflected in the work of companies like Roundabout Theatre Company, which has a long history of staging innovative productions of classic musicals. The company's commitment to reviving and reinterpreting classic shows has helped to establish it as a major force in the world of musical theater, and its involvement in the production of 'Damn Yankees' is likely to be seen as a significant development in this area.