RIALTO CHATTER: Will Springer Bring His West End 'Razzle Dazzle' To Broadway's CHICAGO?

The New York Times is reporting that talk show host Jerry Springer, who just finished up a successful six-week run as Billy Flynn in the musical CHICAGO in London's West End, is now in talks to play the role on Broadway.

In a recent interview in London, Springer said that he also has plans to play the role for a week each in productions of "Chicago" in Philadelphia and Atlanta in September.

A spokesman for the Broadway production of "Chicago" said this afternoon that no contract had been signed with Mr. Springer at this point and no casting decision could be confirmed reports The Times.

Yet, the Web site for Philly's Kimmel Center has already begun advertising Mr. Springer's appearance in the show, scheduled for Sept. 15-20th, 2009.

In an recent UK interview, Springer revealed that he planned to join the Broadway production of CHICAGO on Aug. 18th and perform in the show for about three weeks. To read the complete Times article click here.

Jerry Springer made his West End stage debut starring as ‘Billy Flynn' in the smash hit West End musical "CHICAGO" at the Cambridge Theatre on Monday June 1st. 

Originally from London, born in Highgate Tube Station during the Blitz in 1944, Jerry Springer is known throughout the world for his television show "The Jerry Springer Show" recorded in the city of Chicago. In addition to talk show host, he has been the mayor of Cincinnati, political pundit, lawyer, award-winning newscaster and even a country recording artist. From 2006 - 2008 he hosted two seasons of ratings' buster "America's Got Talent" and even won over America's heart with his ballroom dancing in "Dancing with Stars".

Today, because of the lasting popularity of his eponymous television show, Jerry Springer is a regular speaker at college campuses across the US including Havard, Yale and Georgetown and in 2000 he was invited to speak at the Oxford Union, where his appearance broke all attendance records. His autobiography "Ringmaster" was published in 1998

CHICAGO now plays on Broadway at the Ambassador Theatre (219 W. 49th St.). The regular performance schedule is as follows: Tuesday through Saturday evenings at 8 p.m. Sunday evenings at 7 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday matinees at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets are available by calling Telecharge.com at 212-239-6200. Tickets may also be purchased in-person at the Ambassador Theatre Box Office. Regular Box Office hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and Noon to 7 p.m. Sunday. Visit www.ChicagoTheMusical.com for more information.