Tracee Ellis Ross is spending the summer in New York City to make her Broadway debut in the production "Every Brilliant Thing" [1, 2].

This transition to the stage marks a significant career milestone for the actress, who is expanding her professional repertoire beyond television and film. The move brings a high-profile television star to the New York theater scene during the 2026 summer season.

Producers announced the casting on Monday, May 18, and said, "Black-ish actress Tracee Ellis Ross is heading to Broadway" [2]. The 53-year-old actress [2] is stepping into a role previously held by Mariska Hargitay, known for her work on Law & Order: SVU [2].

Ross is now based in New York City for the duration of the summer [1, 2]. The production of "Every Brilliant Thing" is a one-person show that requires the lead performer to engage directly with the audience, and the environment of the theater [1, 2].

While Ross has built a substantial career in the U.S. entertainment industry, this project represents her first formal entry into the Broadway circuit [2]. The announcement of her casting in May preceded her arrival in the city for the current summer run [2].

“"Black-ish actress Tracee Ellis Ross is heading to Broadway"”

The casting of a recognized television star like Ross in a one-person show reflects a broader Broadway trend of leveraging established screen celebrity to drive ticket sales for intimate, character-driven plays. By replacing another high-profile actress, the production maintains its commercial appeal while shifting the artistic interpretation of the role.