George Clooney will make his Broadway acting debut next year in a stage adaptation of his 2005 movie, “Good Night, and Good Luck.” The Hollywood star will play legendary TV journalist Edward R. Murrow in the play, which Clooney co-wrote and earned him directing and writing Oscar nominations. The 90-minute black-and-white film starred David Strathairn as Murrow and focused on his struggle to maintain support from CBS executives for critical reporting on Republican Sen. Joseph McCarthy.
The play will be directed by David Cromer and is set to premiere on Broadway in spring 2025 at a Shubert Theatre. Clooney expressed his excitement about returning to the stage and specifically to Broadway, where every actor aspires to perform. Murrow, who died in 1965, is considered one of the pioneers of U.S. broadcast news. The title of the film comes from Murrow’s signoff on the TV series “See It Now,” highlighting his dedication to truth in journalism.
Cromer praised Murrow’s moral clarity and the immediacy of his early live television broadcasts, which he believes can only be effectively captured on stage in front of a live audience. The Clooneys have a strong connection to journalism, with George’s father, Nick Clooney, working as a TV news anchor and journalist in various cities. At the time the movie was released, George Clooney highlighted the importance of journalists in holding the government accountable during the McCarthy era, emphasizing the need for well-written words about the fourth estate.
The film “Good Night, and Good Luck” showcased Murrow’s integrity and courage in reporting on McCarthy’s accusations of government disloyalty. Clooney played the role of Fred Friendly, a co-creator of the TV series who resisted pressure to censor the critical reports. The play adaptation will bring Murrow’s story to a new audience, emphasizing the relevance of his work in today’s media landscape. Clooney’s dedication to honoring journalistic integrity through his work on the film and now on stage reflects his commitment to highlighting the importance of a free press.
As preparations for the Broadway premiere of “Good Night, and Good Luck” continue, fans of George Clooney and supporters of quality journalism eagerly anticipate the debut of this stage adaptation. The play will offer a unique opportunity to experience the moral clarity and journalistic integrity of Edward R. Murrow live on stage, resonating with audiences in a new way. With Clooney’s star power and commitment to the project, the production is poised to be a standout highlight on Broadway in 2025. Stay tuned for more updates as the premiere date approaches and ticket sales open for this highly anticipated production.
