Matthew MurphyIt's that time of the year again. It's time to celebrate the best of Broadway!
In case you missed the news early this morning, The Book of Mormon stars Nikki M. James and Andrew Rannells announced the nominees for the 2016 Tony Awards live from the Diamond Horseshoe at the Paramount Hotel.
While there were plenty of pleasant surprises, some fans were disappointed to learn that Jennifer Hudson was not nominated for her role as Shug Avery in The Color of Purple.
"Ultimate snub of @IAMJHUD for the #TonyAwards," one Twitter follower shared. "Her performance was great for it being her first time in Broadway."
As it turned out, Jennifer decided to reply back with her own theory as to why she woke up without a nomination.
"My presence was used for my celebrity, not my talent," she reportedly wrote. "I'm not surprised." The Tweet has since been deleted but an additional reply has surfaced with the simple message, "Thank u anyways."
If it's any consolation, The Color Purple still received some love as the nominations were revealed bright and early. The production is up for Best Revival of a Musical and cast members Danielle Brooks and Cynthia Erivo are both nominated for their performances.
"Very proud and overwhelmed to say congrats to @cynthiaerivo @daniebb3 @color purple entire cast on tony nod !" Jennifer shared on Instagram. "One hell of a cast that's for sure ! Proud of u all!"
The Color Purple is described as a Broadway event that gives an exhilarating new spirit to the Pulitzer Prize-winning story. Complete with jazz, gospel, ragtime and blues music, the production has received rave reviews from fans and critics alike.
The show runs at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre Tuesdays through Sundays.