Kristin Chenoweth found herself at the center of social media controversy after publicly mourning the death of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, who was tragically shot on September 10 during a speaking event at Utah Valley University.
Kirk, 31, was the co-founder of Turning Point USA and had been touring colleges across America to challenge students to debates.
Social Media Outpouring and Criticism
On the day of Kirk’s assassination, the 57-year-old Wicked star posted on Instagram:
“I’m. So. Upset. Didn’t always agree but appreciated some perspectives
. What a heartbreak. His young family. I know where he is now. Heaven. But still.”
She followed up on her Instastory, calling the killing “such a sad, senseless, and disgusting act!” and sending prayers for Kirk’s family and the nation.
However, many fans, particularly within the LGBTQIA community, accused Chenoweth of aligning with far-right politics, despite her history as a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
Chenoweth Responds to the Backlash
Speaking to Spectrum News NY1, Chenoweth addressed the criticism: “I saw what happened online with my own eyes.
And I had a human moment of reflection. Right then, I came to understand that my comment hurt some folks and that hurt me.”
She reaffirmed her identity as a Christian and an LGBTQ+ advocate: “It’s no secret that I have been, that I’m a Christian, that I’m a person of faith.
It’s also no secret that I am an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, and for some, that doesn’t go together.
But for me it always has. And it always will.”
Suspected Gunman and Upcoming Memorial
The suspected shooter, 22-year-old Tyler James Robinson, is currently held without bond in the Special Housing Unit of Utah County Jail in Spanish Fork, Utah.
He faces multiple charges, including murder, obstruction, and violence in the presence of a child.
His next court hearing is set for September 29.
Charlie Kirk is survived by his wife Erika and their two children, both under the age of three.
A memorial service is scheduled for this Sunday at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
Broadway Returns and New Projects
Amid the controversy, Chenoweth is gearing up for the Broadway opening of The Queen of Versailles at the St. James Theatre in Midtown Manhattan.
Previews begin October 8, with an official opening on November 9.
The musical, adapted from Lauren Greenfield’s 2012 documentary, features music by Stephen Schwartz and a book by Lindsey Ferrentino.
Oscar winner F. Murray Abraham will portray Jackie Siegel’s late husband, David Siegel.
This marks a major Broadway return for Chenoweth, who last appeared in On the Twentieth Century a decade ago.
“I’m ready to birth this baby. I’m ready for the country, the world to see what we have been working on so hard,” she said.
“I feel like I’ve been producing myself for so long that this was just the natural step.”
Expanding Roles and Personal Life
Chenoweth continues to seek challenging roles, including portraying junior college cheerleading coach Tammy Istiny in NBC’s mockumentary comedy Stumble, which premieres November 7.
Beyond acting, she’s also an influencer with paid partnerships for brands like Nom Nom, Olipop, Swarovski, and Laura Geller Beauty.
On the personal front, the Emmy winner recently celebrated her second wedding anniversary with guitarist Josh Bryant, whom she met in 2016 when his band performed at her niece’s wedding reception.