George Clooney's 'Good Night, And Good Luck' Breaks Broadway Box Office Record

"Good Night, and Good Luck," co-written by George Clooney and Grant Heslov and directed by David Cromer, adapts their 2005 film focusing on Edward R. Murrow's televised confrontations with Senator Joseph McCarthy during the anti-communist fervor of the 1950s. Clooney steps into the lead role previously played by David Strathairn on screen.

The play's financial triumph is remarkable. Its $3.78 million weekly haul at the 1,537-seat Winter Garden Theatre wasn't just a record for a non-musical play, but also achieved with higher average ticket prices than previous hits like "The Music Man." This success came in the first full week after its April 3rd opening, following strong preview numbers ($3.3M).

Co-star Ilana Glazer highlights the play's contemporary resonance. She notes the audience's emotional reactions, stating, "There are always people weeping in the audience," particularly during moments that draw parallels between the McCarthy era and today's political climate. Glazer emphasizes the play's potential to activate audiences, prompted by Clooney's direct address as Murrow: "What will you do?" She also shares her personal journey into the role, learning about the real Shirley Wershba (now 102 years old) and adapting to the unique demands of a Broadway schedule.

Adding a touch of characteristic humor, Clooney's official bio in the playbill wryly warns attendees of his long absence from the stage: "George’s last time in an Equity theatre was in June of 1986... He has never appeared on Broadway so… buckle up.”

Despite the high price point of "Good Night, and Good Luck," it wasn't the most expensive ticket on Broadway that week; "Othello" starring Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal commanded an average of $375. Overall, Broadway is showing strong signs of recovery, with total gross ($44.1M for the week) and attendance (328,926) up significantly compared to the previous year.

What is 'Good Night, and Good Luck' about?

The play dramatizes the conflict between esteemed broadcast journalist Edward R. Murrow and Senator Joseph McCarthy during the anti-communist investigations of the 1950s.

Who stars in the Broadway production?

George Clooney stars as Edward R. Murrow, and Ilana Glazer plays his colleague, Shirley Wershba.

How much did the play gross recently?

It set a record for a non-musical play, grossing $3.78 million in one week.

Do you think the themes of 'Good Night, and Good Luck' are more relevant today than ever? Let us know your thoughts!

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