Comedian and actor Matteo Lane will make his Broadway debut as Billy Flynn in the Chicago musical beginning Monday, June 22 at the Ambassador Theatre in New York City, marking the latest casting in the record-breaking revival.
Quick Facts
- Lane, 39, is a comedian, actor, and singer known for his stand-up comedy and musical prowess.
- His Broadway debut as Billy Flynn begins June 22, 2026 at the Ambassador Theatre.
- He has sold out venues including Radio City Music Hall, Carnegie Hall, The Chicago Theatre, and The Kennedy Center.
- Chicago is Broadway’s longest-running American musical and will celebrate its 30th anniversary this fall.
Lane is currently in the midst of his third international tour, We Gotta Catch Up, and has released several comedy specials including The Al Dente Special, Hair Plugs & Heartache, and The Advice Special, all available on various streaming platforms.
On screen, Lane’s credits include roles in Abbott Elementary and Survival of the Thickest, as well as Netflix’s all-queer stand-up special Outstanding: A Comedy Revolution. He also appeared in The Joan Rivers Tribute on NBC/Peacock. Described by Advocate as “bold and unflinchingly genuine,” Lane has over 4.5 million followers across social media.
Chicago musical welcomes comedian Matteo Lane as Billy Flynn
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Lane will take over the role of Billy Flynn from Nik Walker. The current cast of Chicago features Rachel Schur as Roxie Hart, Sophie Carmen-Jones as Velma Kelly, Jacqueline B. Arnold as Matron “Mama” Morton, and Greg Hildreth as Amos Hart.
Chicago, with a legendary book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse, music by John Kander, and lyrics by Ebb, is now the number one longest-running American musical in Broadway history. The musical will celebrate its 30th anniversary this fall with a special performance during the 2026 Tony Awards on June 7.
Sources
- Shubert Organization — Official announcement of Matteo Lane’s casting as Billy Flynn beginning June 22, 2026, at the Ambassador Theatre; Lane’s background and credits.
- People.com — Exclusive announcement of Lane’s Broadway debut; his age (39), touring history, comedy specials, and on-screen credits; current cast information; Chicago’s 30th anniversary details.
- Broadway News — Confirmation of Lane’s Broadway debut and note of his Liza Minnelli impression.
