DWTS Contestant Lands Iconic Role on Broadway
"Dancing With the Stars" stage, 2017. Photo courtesy of Serecki under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Whitney Leavitt's journey from social media sensation to Broadway Star is the kind of story that feels scripted for the stage itself. After a surprising and controversial exit from season 34 of "Dancing With the Stars" in late 2025, the Utah-based mom influencer and reality TV personality received a life-changing call. Almost immediately, she was invited to join the cast of the iconic musical "Chicago" in New York City. This dramatic pivot from "MomTok" fame to the Great White Way spotlight is a testament to grit, reinvention, and the power of chasing a dream.
From Reality TV to Dance Floors and Beyond
Whitney Leavitt first captured public attention as a standout figure on the reality series "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives," a show that follows young mothers navigating life within the Mormon community. Known for her candid and sometimes polarizing presence, Whitney quickly became a household name among reality TV fans. Her social media following soared, earning her the nickname "MomToker" for her engaging TikTok content centered on motherhood and lifestyle.
Her reality TV fame opened the door to a new challenge: competing on "Dancing With the Stars." Partnered with professional dancer Mark Ballas, Whitney quickly proved she was more than just a social media personality. Week after week, the duo dazzled judges and audiences alike, consistently landing at the top of the leaderboard. Their performances, including a memorable Argentine Tango to "Cell Block Tango" from "Chicago," showcased Whitney's natural talent and determination.
Despite her strong showing, Whitney's journey on "Dancing With the Stars" ended abruptly just one week before the finals. The elimination shocked fans and insiders, sparking debates about whether her reality TV reputation influenced the voting. Comedian Andy Richter, a fellow contestant, publicly called her exit "absolutely insane," praising her as an "amazing dancer" and questioning the fairness of the decision, as reported by Entertainment Weekly. The controversy only added fuel to Whitney's rising profile.
The Broadway Breakthrough
What happened next reads like a fairy tale. According to Whitney, the very day after her "Dancing With the Stars" elimination, she was asked to fly to New York City for an in-person audition for "Chicago," PEOPLE reports. This was no ordinary casting call. Whitney had already been sending audition tapes showcasing her vocals, acting chops, and dance skills. The in-person audition was the final step in a competitive process that reportedly involved a bidding war for the coveted role of Roxie Hart.
Whitney's leap from reality TV and social media influencer to Broadway actress is a stunning career reinvention. Landing the role of Roxie Hart, one of musical theater's most iconic characters, marks her professional theater debut. Her six-week limited engagement at the Ambassador Theatre in New York City is set to begin in February 2026 and run through mid-March.
The speed of Whitney's casting is remarkable. The day after her audition, she was offered the part. This rapid turnaround speaks volumes about her talent and the impression she made on the producers. Whitney described the moment as surreal, a dream come true after months of "manifesting" and hard work, as reported by PEOPLE. It's a powerful reminder that persistence and belief can open doors in the most unexpected ways.
A Role With a Rich Legacy
Whitney is not the first reality star to take on Roxie Hart. She follows in the footsteps of other reality TV personalities like Erika Jayne from "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" and Ariana Madix from "Vanderpump Rules," both of whom found success in the role. This lineage adds a layer of glamour and intrigue to Whitney's casting, positioning her within a unique tradition of crossover stars who have made the leap from reality fame to Broadway acclaim.
The role of Roxie Hart is demanding, requiring a blend of singing, dancing, and acting that few can master. Whitney's background on "Dancing With the Stars" gave her a solid foundation in dance, while her audition tapes demonstrated her vocal and acting abilities. This combination convinced the producers that she was ready to take on the challenge.
Overcoming the Villain Label
Whitney's path has not been without obstacles. On "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives," she was often cast as the villain, a portrayal that she has openly acknowledged was difficult to watch. She has explained that some of her decisions on the show were made without full context, leading to a darker public image than she intended, as reported by Entertainment Weekly. This reputation may have contributed to the backlash she faced on "Dancing With the Stars," where some fans reportedly voted against her because of her reality TV persona.
Yet Whitney has used this adversity as fuel. Rather than letting the negativity define her, she has channeled it into determination to prove her versatility and talent. Her Broadway debut is a bold statement of reinvention, showing that she is more than a reality star or social media influencer. She is an artist ready to claim her place on one of the world's most prestigious stages.
The Power of Reinvention
Whitney Leavitt's story is a vivid example of how the entertainment landscape is evolving. Social media stars are no longer confined to digital platforms; they are crossing over into traditional arenas like Broadway, film, and television. Whitney's journey from "MomTok" to the Ambassador Theatre is proof that with grit, talent, and a little bit of luck, reinvention is possible at any stage.
For Whitney, the future is wide open. Her upcoming run in "Chicago" is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting new chapter. Fans and critics alike will be watching as she steps into the spotlight, ready to captivate audiences with her performance as Roxie Hart.
References: Whitney Leavitt Reveals How She Landed Role in Chicago (Exclusive) | DWTS, SLOMW Star Whitney Leavitt Lands Role On Broadway | 'DWTS' season 34 contestant to star as Roxie Hart in 'Chicago'
