The world of show business can be unpredictable.
Ciara Renée, an experienced actress known for her roles in Broadway and television, is claiming she was let go from a play just before her anticipated performances. She had high hopes for the substantial pay that came with the gig.
Renée, recognized for her portrayal of “Hawkgirl” in both “Arrow” and “The Flash,” has also starred as “Waitress” Jenna, Elsa from “Frozen,” and in the 2013 Broadway productions of “Pippin” and “Big Fish.” After her successful stint at Paper Mill Playhouse last year, she assumed she would be joining the cast of the upcoming musical “Wanted.”
In her latest role in the show “Gun & Powder,” she earned commendations for her character, Mary Clark, one of twin sisters who became black outlaws in Texas during 1893. The production received accolades, including being labeled a “Critic’s Pick” by the New York Times.
Renée, now 34, said she recorded songs for the studio showcase at the request of the producers, as detailed in the lawsuit. In August 2024, she was invited to perform at an event aimed at potential investors in Martha’s Vineyard, where she was represented as a future cast member of the Broadway production.
Following that, she was approached about attending other functions, such as staged readings and an awards event in New Jersey scheduled for November 18th.
However, things took a turn about a week later when producer Alecia Parker, noted for her executive production work on “Waitress,” along with Samuel Lopez, made their case in federal court. They allegedly indicated to the production company, Sister Clark LLC, that Renée would not be negotiated for or hired due to claims of her being “incooperative” and not open to feedback from the creative team.
Renée has firmly denied these accusations, countering that she earned $486,000 during a nine-month Broadway run, with plans for the show to premiere in 2026.
The producers’ lawyer has dismissed Renée’s allegations. Richard Ross, attorney for the producers, stated that they would “vehemently deny her allegations and defend against her false claims.”
