Andrea McArdle, Broadway's Original Annie, Steps Down from Role in 'Annie Live!'

Photo: Derek Storm/FilmMagic

Andrea McArdle, Broadway’s original Annie, is stepping down from her role in the upcomingAnnie Live!production due to a family emergency.

McArdle, 58, was cast as Eleanor Roosevelt in the NBC live musical set to air, next week.

“I am saddened to announce I will not be participating in “ANNIE LIVE!” My father is currently in the hospital, and I need to put all of my energy into his health and well-being. I wish everyone involved with the production great success. Break a leg everyone,” said McArdle.

Executive Producer ofAnnie Live!Bob Greenblatt also commented on the Broadway star’s sudden departure.

“We love Andrea McArdle and our entire company is sending best wishes to her and her father. Our Annie, Celina Smith, is thrilled to have met her and she’s excited about following in her incredible footsteps.”

McArdle is the second person to departAnnie Live!

“She’s recovering safely and she wishesAnniethe best,” a source of Krakowski told PEOPLE at the time. “She’ll be cheering Megan and the cast on from the sidelines.”

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The star-studded cast also featuresTaraji P. Hensonas Miss Hannigan,Harry Connick Jr.as Daddy Warbucks,Titus Burgessas Rooster Hannigan,Nicole Scherzingeras Grace and newcomerCelina Smithas Annie.

Annie Live!will air Dec. 2 on NBC at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

source: people.com