HAMILTON's Javier Munoz Reveals Cancer Diagnosis; Praises Cast for Support

Talented actor Javier Muñoz, who steps in for Lin-Manuel Miranda on Sunday matinees as the alternate Alexander Hamilton in the hit Broadway musical Hamilton, has been diagnosed with cancer. The 40-year-old revealed the news in today's New York Post.

"I was diagnosed in October," Muñoz shares with The Post. "I spent about six weeks not wanting to think about it, face, it, deal with it." While the actor declined to say which specific cancer he was diagnosed with, he revealed, "I had never felt fear before like this in my life."

Back in November, the actor took a break from the show to undergo surgery, and subsequent radiation treatments which left him completely exhausted. He followed up with a stint of physical therapy to help him regain his strength. During his two-month absence, fellow cast member Jon Rua often took on the titular role in his place.

Explains Hamilton director Thomas Kail, "There was no thought at all about [replacing him]. Javi's someone who has given so much." He continues. "Now we wanted to make sure he had what he needed to be well, and to know he wasn't alone." His Hamilton cast members also helped Muñoz get through the rough period. "God bless Leslie Odom Jr.!" says Muñoz of the actor who organized an effort to have paid meals delivered to his apartment daily.

Muñoz also spoke about the challenges of stepping in for Lin-Manuel Miranda, who has now become an international symbol for the $10 Founding Father. "We work so hard and so well together that, in my mind, I find it almost impossible to separate our versions," he says. Adds Kail, "Javi's not the alternate - he is Hamilton on Sundays."

Today, Lin-Manuel Miranda turned to Twitter to praise his co-star:

BWW sends our best wishes to Muñoz for good health!

Read the article in full here

Photo Credit: Walter McBride / WM Photos