Actress Stephanie Hsu said she was a virgin before being cast as Janet in the Broadway revival of The Rocky Horror Show [1, 2].

The revelation provides a glimpse into the personal journey of a performer taking on a role known for its themes of sexual liberation and exploration. By sharing this detail, Hsu highlights the contrast between her own life experience and the character she portrayed on the New York City stage [1, 3].

Hsu shared the personal detail in the context of her interactions with director Sam Pinkleton [2]. According to reports, the actress offered the information when Pinkleton asked if she wanted to play the role of Janet, using the moment as a candid anecdote about her life before joining the production [2].

During a discussion of the experience, Hsu said, "I was like, 'I've actually ...'" while confessing her status at the time [2]. The production of The Rocky Horror Show is celebrated for its subversive nature and boundary-pushing content, making the actress's personal history a point of interest for those following the revival [1, 3].

Hsu, who is 35 [4], has become a prominent figure in both film and theater. Her casting in the Broadway revival brought a new perspective to the role of Janet, a character who undergoes a significant transformation throughout the play [1, 2].

The actress's willingness to be open about her private life reflects a broader trend of performers discussing the intersection of their personal identities, and their professional roles. This transparency often helps audiences connect more deeply with the actors and the characters they bring to life on stage [1].

“"I was like, 'I've actually ...'"”

This anecdote underscores the frequent disconnect between an actor's lived experience and the demands of a role. In the case of The Rocky Horror Show, a production rooted in the dismantling of sexual inhibitions, Hsu's personal history adds a layer of irony and growth to her portrayal of Janet's awakening.