Jessica Chastain's Pooch Makes Broadway Debut!

The cast of Broadway's The Heiress was increased by one at this past Saturday's matinee performance. Deep into the drama's second act, at perhaps the most climactic point of the show, Jessica Chastain's adorable three-legged dog unexpectedly pranced onto the stage. At first, audience members were not sure if the pooch was part of the play, but quickly realized from the stunned faces of the actors that he clearly did not belong.

Laughter quickly ensued as someone from the wings managed to coax the dog off stage. Ever the professionals, Chastain and the rest of the first-rate cast waited for the laughter to subside before resuming their lines right where they left off.

Not only did the appearance mark the Broadway debut for the three-legged canine, he even had his chance to take a bow when the Oscar-nominated actress held him tightly in her arms during the curtain call.

At the stage door, Chastain explained to theater fans that she had rescued the handicapped dog, named Chaplin, from an animal shelter. Will this be the last we'll see of the pup? Who knows. Perhaps 'Sandy', over at the Palace Theater is looking for a new understudy!

The new Broadway production of the Tony Award winning play The Heiress began previews on October 6th and opened November 1st at the Walter Kerr Theatre (219 West 48th St.). The show will play a limited run through February 10, 2013.

The Heiress stars Academy Award nominee Jessica Chastain, Academy Award nominee and Emmy Award winner David Strathairn, the leading man of "Downton Abbey" Dan Stevens, and Tony Award winner Judith Ivey. Written by Ruth & Augustus Goetz, The Heiress is directed by Tony Award nominated playwright and director Moisés Kaufman.

The design team includes Tony Award winner Derek McLane (sets), Academy Award winner Albert Wolsky (costumes), Tony Award nominee David Lander (lighting), Peter Golub (original music) and Tony Award nominee Leon Rothenberg (sound).

Photo Credit: Walter McBride / WM Photos