McCourt Subs for Ailing Grey as Wicked Wizard

Wicked star Joel Grey, who plays the Wizard of Oz in the hit musical, is out of the show on medical leave recovering from a recent bout of bronchitis, a production spokesperson confirmed to Broadway.com. Grey has not performed since the matinee on June 20. It is uncertain when he will return to the tuner. Understudy Sean McCourt, who usually plays various small roles, will take on the role of the Wizard during Grey's absence.

"All of us at Wicked love Joel and look forward to his speedy recovery and quick return to the show," producer David Stone said in a statement.

McCourt is an original cast member of Wicked, most notably appearing as the father of heroine Elphaba. He was previously seen on Broadway in the Tony-winning musical Titanic. Off-Broadway credits include Bat Boy, A Man of No Importance, Yiddle with a Fiddle, Radio Gals and June and Jean in Concert.

Wicked currently also stars Kristin Chenoweth, Idina Menzel, Norbert Leo Butz, Carole Shelley and Randy Harrison. Tony winner Menzel is on vacation through July 2 filming a role in the upcoming movie Ask the Dust. Chenoweth and Butz are set to leave the show on July 18, to be replaced by Jennifer Laura Thompson and Joey McIntyre, respectively.