Whoopi Goldberg, the iconic actress, comedian, and EGOT winner, has taken center stage in a way no one expected—as the hilariously wicked Miss Hannigan in the latest revival of Annie. Goldberg’s portrayal of the villainous orphanage head is as delightfully vile as it is unforgettable, earning rave reviews and standing ovations from audiences and critics alike.
The revival, which premiered to a packed house at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre, has already created waves for its stellar casting and fresh energy. But it’s Goldberg’s take on the classic character that’s the real standout. Known for her sharp wit and larger-than-life personality, she brings a unique flavor to Miss Hannigan, blending humor, sass, and a touch of chaos to craft a performance that’s as entertaining as it is original.
A Role Made for Whoopi
From her first entrance, Goldberg commands the stage. Dressed in a tattered leopard-print robe, with disheveled curls and a bottle of “booze” in hand, her Miss Hannigan is a masterclass in comedic timing. Goldberg’s exaggerated sneers, booming laugh, and playful insults have the audience laughing out loud. She also adds surprising depth to the role, showing glimpses of vulnerability in moments of solitude, making Miss Hannigan more human than ever before.
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, Goldberg shared her excitement about stepping into such an iconic role. “Miss Hannigan is a character we all love to hate, and I wanted to have fun with her but also give her a fresh twist,” she said. “She’s mean, sure, but she’s also deeply flawed and misunderstood, which makes her a blast to play.”
A Star-Studded Revival
The production of Annie is a star-studded affair, with fresh faces and Broadway veterans alike breathing new life into the beloved musical. The young actress playing Annie, 11-year-old sensation Ruby Harris, delivers a show-stopping performance of “Tomorrow” that earned a mid-show standing ovation. Meanwhile, the cast’s chemistry is electric, from the adorable ensemble of orphans to the dashing Oliver Warbucks, played by Tony nominee Michael Arden.
However, it’s Goldberg who steals the spotlight every time she steps on stage. Her rendition of “Little Girls” is a comedic masterpiece, complete with dramatic gestures and over-the-top expressions that have quickly gone viral on social media. Fans are already calling it the definitive version of the song, with TikTok clips racking up millions of views.
Fans and Critics Agree: Whoopi Is a Hit
Reviews for Goldberg’s performance have been glowing. The New York Times called her portrayal “a wickedly funny reinvention of Miss Hannigan,” while Variety praised her “magnetic stage presence and comic genius.” Fans on Twitter have also flooded the platform with praise, dubbing her the “ultimate Miss Hannigan” and demanding she take the show on a nationwide tour.
For Goldberg, the role is a triumphant return to the stage. Despite her long and illustrious career in film and television, she hasn’t performed in a Broadway-style production in over a decade. “It’s like coming home,” she said. “Theater has always been my first love, and getting to do this with such a talented cast is an absolute joy.”
A Must-See Spectacle
The Annie revival is expected to have a limited run, but fans are already clamoring for an extension—or better yet, a filmed version of the production. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the musical or someone looking for a fun night out, this show promises a blend of nostalgia, laughter, and jaw-dropping talent.
Whoopi Goldberg’s Miss Hannigan isn’t just a performance—it’s a moment in theater history. Don’t miss your chance to witness it live.
Tickets are selling fast, so grab yours now before they’re gone!