James Carpinello Won't Return to Xanadu; Jackson Stays as Sonny

Although he originally acknowledged that he was just "borrowing" the skates of injured Xanadu leading man James Carpinello, Cheyenne Jackson has now been announced to stay in the role of Sonny "permanantly," according to a press release.

In a statement, producer Robert Ahrens acknowledged the contributions of Carpinello, who bowed out of the production during previews in June, and added, "We hope to work with James in the future on one of the international productions of the show." Ahrens also praised Jackson for both stepping into the role on extremely short notice and for his "amazing" performance.

Xanadu, which opened on July 10 at the Helen Hayes Theatre, also stars Kerry Butler, Tony Roberts, Jackie Hoffman and Mary Testa with Curtis Holbrook, Anika Larsen, Kenita Miller and Andre Ward. The musical features a book by Douglas Carter Beane, music by John Farrar and Jeff Lynne and was directed by Christopher Ashley