Playbill reports that Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson made her Broadway debut on December 14, 2024, with a one-night-only walk-on role in the acclaimed jukebox musical & Juliet. Taking the stage at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre, Justice Jackson fulfilled a unique dream she shared in her memoir, Lovely One, bringing together her love for theater and her trailblazing journey as the first Black female Supreme Court justice in U.S. history.
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In her memoir, published in September 2024, Jackson reflected on her theatrical aspirations:
“I, a Miami girl from a modest background with an unabashed love of theatre, dreamed of one day ascending to the highest court in the land—and I had said so in one of my supplemental application essays. I expressed that I wished to attend Harvard as I believed it might help me ‘to fulfill my fantasy of becoming the first Black, female Supreme Court justice to appear on a Broadway stage.’”
In & Juliet, a reimagining of Shakespeare’s classic that asks, “What if Juliet didn’t end her life over Romeo?” Jackson joined a talented cast that includes Maya Boyd, Tony winner Paulo Szot, and Jeannette Bayardelle. The musical, known for its innovative storytelling and a hit-filled soundtrack by Max Martin, has captivated audiences since its opening in November 2022.
Following her cameo performance, Jackson participated in a talkback session with the cast and audience, reflecting on the significance of her Broadway debut and what it means for the next generation of dreamers.
Representation matters, not just in the Supreme Court or on the Broadway stage, but in the ability to create a space where Black excellence is celebrated across all fields. Justice Jackson’s debut is a reminder that visibility is a powerful tool for inspiring future generations. Her presence on stage, though brief, was a moment of pride for the Black community—a much-needed reminder that Black women can thrive in any space they choose to occupy.
Cover photo: Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson Makes Broadway Debut / Credit: & Juliet
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