She joined the Broadway cast of Cole Porter's 'Du Barry Was a Lady', replacing star Ethel Merman mid-run.
On January 16, 1940, Gypsy Rose Lee joined the Broadway cast of Cole Porter's musical comedy Du Barry Was a Lady, stepping into a role that had been originated by the formidable Broadway star Ethel Merman. Taking over a leading role from a performer of Merman's stature was itself a testament to Lee's growing reputation as a legitimate musical comedy talent, not merely a novelty burlesque act.
Du Barry Was a Lady, featuring music and lyrics by Cole Porter, was one of the hit musical comedies of the era, known for its sophisticated wit and memorable score. Merman originated the female lead, and having Gypsy Rose Lee step into this high-profile role mid-run demonstrated the producers' confidence in her ability to carry a major book musical, drawing audiences on the strength of her own celebrity.
This engagement was significant in Lee's broader career trajectory as it further validated her transition from burlesque performer to legitimate Broadway actress capable of handling substantial dramatic and comedic material beyond striptease routines. It reflected the increasing respectability she had earned in mainstream entertainment circles by 1940, building on her Ziegfeld Follies appearance and setting the stage for her continued presence in major Broadway productions throughout the decade, including her later work as a producer and star of Star and Garter.