Broadway is adding another R&B powerhouse to its stage.
Grammy Award-nominated singer, songwriter, and actor Luke James has officially joined the cast of the new Broadway musical Wanted, stepping into the role of Elijah as the production prepares for its 2026 run.
James joins a stacked ensemble that already includes Solea Pfeiffer (Hadestown, Gatsby: An American Myth) as Mary Clarke, Liisi LaFontaine (Moulin Rouge! The Musical, Dreamgirls) as Martha Clarke, and 16-time Grammy-nominated artist Ledisi as Tallulah Clarke.
Previews for Wanted begin October 15, 2026 at the James Earl Jones Theatre, with opening night set for November 8.
Set in Texas in 1893, Wanted tells the “mostly true” story of Mary and Martha Clarke—twin sisters navigating survival, identity, and danger as Black women who pass for white while fighting to protect their family’s future. As forces close in around them, the sisters are pushed into a world where survival demands impossible choices, testing the limits of loyalty, freedom, and sacrifice.
The production blends history, myth, and music into a sweeping narrative centered on sisterhood and resistance. It has already earned early critical buzz from previous developmental runs, where it was praised for its bold storytelling and genre-blending score.
At the creative helm are book and lyrics writer Angelica Chéri and composer Ross Baum. The musical is directed by Tony Award nominee Stevie Walker-Webb, with choreography by Chelsey Arce.
For Luke James, the role marks another major step in a career that has consistently bridged music, film, and television. Known for his breakout performances in projects like The Chi, Them, and Little, as well as his Grammy-nominated music career, James last appeared on Broadway in Thoughts of a Colored Man in 2021.
He joins WANTED amid a strong run in both music and screen acting, continuing to build a reputation as one of entertainment’s most dynamic multi-hyphenates.
Tickets for WANTED are now on sale via Telecharge, with preview pricing available for early performances.
With its blend of historical inspiration, musical storytelling, and a cast filled with powerhouse vocalists and stage veterans, WANTED is shaping up to be one of Broadway’s most anticipated new productions heading into 2026.