Michelle Williams Discusses Exiting Broadway Show for Mental Health Treatment
Michelle Williams, former member of Destiny's Child, opened up about her decision to leave the Broadway show Once On This Island in 2018. This was only two weeks into the run, driven by her need to seek treatment for depression.
Today, she stars in Death Becomes Her, marking a significant return to Broadway six years after her previous exit. Reflecting on her 2018 experience, Michelle commented on Good Morning America (GMA) on February 3, saying, "Back in 2018, I had to leave a Broadway show because of my mental health." She expressed fear that she had closed the door to future opportunities, believing she had "blew it" and would appear as a liability.
Michelle had sought treatment earlier that same year. Looking back, she shared, "I wasn't as well as I probably should have been. It just got to the point where I had to check out of the show." She described this experience as "two blows in the same year": entering a treatment facility for depression while leaving a production.
Now receiving buzz for a potential Tony Award for her performance in Death Becomes Her, Michelle stated, "It feels like I've already won." Her joy at returning to Broadway is palpable; "It's great to be back," she acknowledged.
The struggle with mental health started during her time with Destiny's Child alongside Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland. Initially, Michelle misinterpreted her symptoms as mere fatigue from a hectic schedule. When she revealed her feelings to their manager, he responded, "What do you have to be depressed about?" With greater understanding now, she wished she had recognized her condition sooner.
Today, her close ties with former bandmates offer strong support. Both Beyonce and Kelly celebrated her opening night in November. "They were so excited when I told them about the opportunity," Michelle reflected during her GMA interview. She expressed gratitude for her comeback, stating, "I'm thankful for second, third, [and] fourth, however many chances."
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