Susan Egan Diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy
Susan Egan, best known for originating the role of Belle in the Broadway production of Beauty and the Beast and playing Mary in the WB sitcom Nikki, has been diagnosed with Bell’s palsy.
The Broadway star shared the news in a social media post, revealing that she will be unable to perform at the upcoming Disney Princess – The Concert tour this fall. Egan, who earned a Tony Award nomination for her role as Belle, performs songs from the iconic Disney movie in the concert series and also serves on the creative team.
“So, this past week I was diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy (cute right? Belle!) – a temporary condition which paralyzes one side of the face,” Egan wrote on Instagram alongside a photo of the Disney princess. “I’m told it’s triggered by a virus, and it seems we have one of those lurking about.”
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“I should make a full recovery,” she continued, “but like Justin Bieber (good company!), who announced a similar condition, I’m unable to perform at this time, and thus will not be on tour with Disney Princess – The Concert this fall.”
Egan went on to say that she would remain in her role as executive producer, “working daily behind the scenes to bring you an absolutely incredible production!” She also announced the two actresses that will be standing in for her as Belle, That’s So Raven star Anneliese van der Pol and Sarah Uriarte Berry, who was the very first Belle in the stage show at Disneyland.
“I love and adore you Sus!” Berry wrote in the comments of Egan’s post. “Belle’s palsy. Excellent pun there. Honored and terrified to step in for you! Sending magical light and love, heal you!”
In addition to her work on Broadway, Egan is known as the voice of Meg in Hercules and Rose Quartz in the Cartoon Network animated series Steven Universe. She co-starred as Nikki Cox’s best friend in 40 episodes of the early 2000s sitcom Nikki and has also had roles in The Drew Carey Show, NYPD Blue, House, and Modern Family.
