Reality star Gemma Collins is set to make her stage debut in Chicago the Musical.

The TV personality, 41, will star as Mama Morton in the UK and Ireland tour of the international smash-hit production, taking over the role from singer Sheila Ferguson.

Collins, who rose to fame in The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE), has also appeared on I’m A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here!, Celebrity Big Brother and Dancing On Ice.

She will bring the razzle dazzle to the tour at the Sunderland Empire from 31 May, with further shows in Cardiff, Blackpool, Sheffield, Norwich and Oxford.

Producer David Ian said they were “were completely stunned” by her audition.

“She’s an undeniable force both on and off stage, and we can’t wait to see her portrayal of Mama Morton on tour,” he added. “Audiences across the country are in for a treat.”

While this will be her debut theatre role, Collins has long been a keen performer.

She studied dance and won a place at the renowned Sylvia Young Theatre School, before finding fame on TOWIE. In 2021, she also announced her own Big Night Out tour.

Collins’ character was played by Queen Latifah in the Oscar-winning film adaptation of the musical.

She joins Coronation Street star Faye Brookes and West End actress Djalenga Scott in the Chicago cast.

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