NBC Taps Taraji P. Henson for Major ‘Annie Live!’ Role

Taraji P. Henson is taking a trip down “Easy Street” for this all-new role.

According to Variety, the Empire actress, 50, is set to play Miss Hannigan in NBC’s upcoming musical adaptation of Annie. *Cue “Little Girls”*

In a statement, Henson revealed that she couldn’t be more thrilled to star in Annie Live!, which is scheduled to premiere later this year. She even referenced Carol Burnett, who played the disgruntled character in the original ’80s movie.

“Carol Burnett, who brought Miss Hannigan to life in the classic 1982 movie, is someone I have studied and idolized as far back as I can remember,” Henson said. “So, when the opportunity came to me to join NBC and this incredible group of producers, I jumped! Carol, I hope to do you proud!”

Annie originally debuted on Broadway back in 1977 and was later adapted into two movies. (The first premiered in 1982 and starred Burnett and Aileen Quinn, followed by the TV version in 1999 and another in 2014 with Quvenzhané Wallis.)

No further casting details about Annie Live! have been announced, though NBC is currently holding virtual auditions for the titular role. Rehearsals for the musical are expected to begin later this year, with the on-screen premiere scheduled for December 2 on NBC. The special will be co-directed by Lear deBessonet and Alex Rudzinski.

“Alexa, please play the Annie soundtrack on Spotify.”

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