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Portman, Spears: Shared Stage Before Fame
4 Oct
Summary
- Britney Spears and Natalie Portman were once understudies.
- They shared the role in a 1992 off-Broadway musical.
- Laura Bell Bundy recalls working with both stars.
Before achieving global fame, pop superstar Britney Spears and Oscar winner Natalie Portman shared a unique early career connection.
Both entertainers were once understudies for the same role in the 1992 off-Broadway musical "Ruthless!". Laura Bell Bundy, who starred as Tina Denmark in the production, revealed this detail during a podcast appearance.
Bundy explained that Spears initially served as her understudy. When Spears moved on, Natalie Portman stepped into the role. Bundy recalled developing a friendship with Portman during this time, even engaging in prank calls together.
The musical "Ruthless!" opened at New York City's Players Theatre in March 1992 and ran for 342 performances. While Spears' stage role was brief, Portman later starred in a 1997 Broadway revival.
