Alison Hammond has made a major career decision after receiving an exciting job offer that could have propelled her onto the international stage.
The beloved TV personality was offered a role in the iconic Broadway production Chicago, but ultimately decided to turn it down.
The opportunity would have required Alison to play the formidable Matron “Mama” Morton in the hit musical.
However, despite the chance to showcase her talents on one of the world’s biggest stages,
the This Morning host revealed that she had to decline the offer due to a scheduling conflict with her commitments to The Great British Bake Off.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity
Speaking on the Smart TV podcast with comedian Josh Widdicombe, Alison disclosed that she was approached to take on the role later this year.
However, the two-month production run coincided with the filming of Bake Off, a show she is contractually bound to.
“I did get offered Broadway,” she admitted. “They offered me Chicago, playing the Black woman, Mama Morton. They wanted me to do it for two months.”
While many would jump at the chance to perform on Broadway, Alison revealed that she had several concerns about accepting the offer. She expressed doubts about her singing ability, admitting that she didn’t feel confident enough to meet the high vocal standards expected for a Broadway performance.
“I know I can’t sing to that ability, so I just said no. I can’t do it,” she explained.
Beyond the vocal challenges, Alison also considered the personal sacrifices she would have had to make if she had accepted the role. Relocating to New York for two months would have meant being away from her family, something she wasn’t willing to do.
“I’d have to move to New York, leave my family, and then go to New York. I’d lose my voice within the first week,” she joked.
Could This Have Been Her Big American Break?
Josh Widdicombe pointed out that the opportunity could have been Alison’s big break in the United States, allowing her to “crack America” in a way that few British TV personalities have managed. While she acknowledged that Broadway was a dream opportunity, she remained realistic about her commitments and personal limitations.
“I could just dream that this is something I could have done,” she said, reflecting on the offer.
Despite turning down Chicago, Alison already has a strong presence in the U.S., thanks to The Great British Bake Off. The show, known as The Great British Baking Show in America, has a dedicated fanbase across the Atlantic, giving her plenty of exposure without the need to relocate.
Alison’s Commitment to Bake Off
Alison joined The Great British Bake Off in 2023, replacing Matt Lucas as a co-host alongside Noel Fielding. Since taking on the role, she has become a fan favorite, bringing her signature warmth and humor to the tent. Her chemistry with contestants and judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith has helped to maintain the show’s enduring popularity.
Turning down Chicago in favor of Bake Off proves just how committed she is to her role. While Broadway would have been an exciting challenge, Bake Off remains one of the biggest TV shows in the UK and a key part of her career.
What’s Next for Alison Hammond?
Even though she passed on the chance to star on Broadway, Alison’s career remains as busy as ever. She continues to be a mainstay on This Morning, co-hosting alongside Dermot O’Leary, while also making guest appearances on various other TV programs.
Her future in entertainment remains bright, and with her talent and charisma, there’s always a possibility that another opportunity to take on the stage will come her way. Whether it’s in the UK or beyond, fans can expect to see plenty more of Alison Hammond in the years to come.
For now, she remains dedicated to Bake Off and her other television commitments, ensuring she continues to bring joy to audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.
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