If you’re like me, you believe that Hairspray is one of the top movie musicals currently out there. You’ve dressed up as Tracy Turnblad for Halloween, complete with wig and everything. You and your friend drive around town listening to “Big Blonde and Beautiful” on repeat. Since John Waters’ quirky film was released in 1988, Hairspray has become larger than life. From Broadway to the big screen in 2007, Hairspray has become a tycoon that has everyone welcoming the spirit of the '60s.
When NBC announced in early January that Hairspray was selected to be the next in their series of live musicals set to air in December, I was excited. I anxiously wait to see my favorite musical revived on my TV screen. However, I am concerned that casting directors couldn’t possibly care about this more than I do. That’s why with some help from by best friend Erin (she told me I had to credit her), I have created my dream Hairspray cast list. Keep in mind that I have no idea what NBC’S budget is and I don’t really care because the final product is all that matters to me.
Anna Kendrick as Penny Pingleton
She can sing, she’s sweet, funny, and could pass for 17. If Amanda Bynes could do it, she definitely can.
Kristen Bell as Amber Von Tussle
Thanks to Frozen, Kristen Bell with her hair so blonde has quickly become America's Sweetheart. Which is why she'd be perfect to play Baltimore's Sweetheart/Resident mean girl.
Grant Gustin as Link Larkin
Zac Efron was actual perfection in the 2007 film, so it’s hard to pick a new guy. Famous for The Flash, Grant was part of the touring company of West Side Story, and has appeared on the third season of Glee. He already sports a mighty pompadour, and I'd love to watch him shake those hips in our direction as teen heartthrob Link.
Nathan Lane as Edna Turnblad
He's Broadway royalty. He's known for loud characters and has quite a distinct voice. I have all the faith in him that he could don an iron and a dress and crush the showstopper that is "Welcome to the 60s".
Jennifer Hudson as Motormouth Maybelle
Whoever plays Maybelle needs to be able to slay "I Know Where I’ve Been". When we need someone to slay, we beg Jennifer Hudson. She hasn't done a live musical yet and it's about time.
Leslie Odom Jr. as Seaweed Stubbs
He may be too busy playing Aaron Burr in Hamilton, but his voice is as smooth as a red velvet cupcake. "Run and Tell That" is one of my personal favorites, and it requires a lot of energy. If he can pull off "The Room Where It Happens" eight shows a week, I know he'll make an amazing Seaweed.
Kristen Chenoweth as Velma Von Tussle
She's another Broadway royal. She'll bring attitude, spark, and a certain coldness that comes with being Miss Baltimore Crabs.
Neil Patrick Harris as Corny Collins
Neil Patrick Harris is perfect to play the man that keeps it spinning ‘round. He's funny and just embodies that emcee spirit. He hosts the Tony's almost every year. Please, NBC. I feel this one in my soul.
Unknown as Tracy Turnblad
As hard as I try, I can't think of a perfect Tracy Turnblad. Besides, NBC will most likely go with an unknown actress anyway, as they did in the past with Nikki Blonsky. The one thing that I do know is important: no fat suits. The miracle of Tracy is that she provides a role for curvy actresses, which sometimes can't be easy to find. I want to see a woman of size win this role. I'll be greatly disappointed in a size two actress in a fat suit.
