Kandi Burruss is proving that even in the middle of a divorce, the show truly must go on.
The Grammy-winning singer and former star of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” recently lit up “The View” with a breathtaking performance of “Perfect” from the Broadway hit & Juliet. Sharing the stage with Gianna Harris, who portrays Juliet, Burruss not only showcased her vocal prowess but also highlighted the power of resilience amid personal challenges.
What made this moment even more remarkable was the public support from her estranged husband, Todd Tucker. Just a day after Burruss’ performance on December 9, Tucker took to Instagram to praise her efforts. Sharing a clip of the performance, he wrote, “Great Job @kandi,” followed by an inspiring message: “Keep inspiring and doing your thing!!!” Burruss’ response was just as gracious, as she liked the post and added a warm heart emoji, showcasing a mature approach to their complex relationship during a tumultuous time.
Burruss filed for divorce in November after 11 years of marriage, citing “irreconcilable differences.” The couple shares two children, son Ace, 9, and daughter Blaze, 6, and have committed to co-parenting as they navigate this new chapter in their lives. This supportive exchange between them is striking, especially given the high stakes of their public split.
In a candid interview with The Independent, Burruss opened up about the emotional toll of her divorce. “There’s a lot going on right now. Obviously, I’m going through a divorce, so that would be a challenge,” she said, her laughter encapsulating both honesty and resilience. Yet, for Burruss, returning to the theater is not just a career move; it is a source of strength amidst the chaos.
“I feel like that’s why this is the perfect time for me to be a part of this show because it’s really helping me to stay focused and drown out the noise,” she elaborated. Engaging in vocal training and rehearsals serves as a form of therapy for her, enabling her to channel her energies into something productive and empowering.
Burruss’ role in & Juliet signifies her return to the stage as Angélique, marking her first theatrical performance since her debut in 2018 as Mama Morton in Chicago. Over the past few years, Burruss has proven her prowess as a producer, contributing to Broadway revivals such as The Piano Lesson and the recent Denzel Washington-led production of Othello. Nevertheless, stepping back under the musical spotlight feels both nostalgic and timely.
Created by Schitt’s Creek Emmy winner David West Read, & Juliet reimagines Shakespeare’s Juliet, offering a narrative centered on empowerment and second chances. The show’s vibrant soundtrack, featuring chart-topping hits from pop icon Max Martin, such as “Roar,” “Since U Been Gone,” and “I Want It That Way,” resonates with themes of self-discovery and joy.
Burruss’ moment on “The View” encapsulated the essence of her journey: a woman navigating a significant transition, achieving success, and receiving encouragement from her past partner, who remains invested in her journey. As she takes on the life-affirming story of & Juliet, it becomes evident that Kandi Burruss is embracing this opportunity to rewrite her own narrative.
For those eager to catch a glimpse of Burruss as Angélique, a sneak preview of her performance can be watched here: