Catherine Tate has withdrawn from her West End production of "Oh, Mary!" citing personal reasons, according to a statement shared on Wednesday. The 56-year-old actress, known for her role in Doctor Who, had been portraying Mary Todd Lincoln in the play at the Trafalgar Theatre since April.
American actor Mason Alexander Park will take over the role of Mary Todd Lincoln from July 20, with Cole Escola also stepping into the part. Park will perform the role from the present until July 18, after which Escola will assume the character from July 20.
Tate's departure has prompted expressions of concern from fans on social media. Many sent well wishes for her well-being, with some recalling her performances. One fan noted seeing Tate perform on July 1, describing her as "incredible" even with a reported knee injury at the time.
"Oh, Mary!" is a play that explores the life of Mary Todd Lincoln in the weeks preceding the assassination of her husband, Abraham Lincoln.
Tate, a mother of one, previously starred in "The Catherine Tate Show," which garnered seven BAFTA nominations. She also reprised her role as Donna Noble in Doctor Who for the show's 60th Anniversary special in 2023. Her other recent credits include the Fox sitcom "Going Dutch," which premiered last month. Tate relocated to the United States for a role in the mockumentary "The Office."