How Rob McClure, a lifelong fan of the film “Mrs. Doubtfire,” feels about taking on the lead role in the musical adaptation

The new Broadway musical Mrs. Doubtfire, directed for the stage by Chris Columbus—best known for writing screenplays for The Goonies and Gremlins and directing films like Home Alone and Harry Potter—has drawn major attention as his first theatrical project. Previews begin March 9 at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre. Just one week before opening, an interview video with leading actor Rob McClure was released, offering a glimpse into his thoughts on the role.

New Broadway musical Mrs. Doubtfire begins performances March 9

The original 1993 film became a worldwide hit, starring the late Robin Williams in one of his most iconic roles.

Stage actor Rob McClure, a lifelong fan of the movie, spoke about the differences between film and stage and his feelings about playing such a beloved character. The journey to Broadway was long—early out-of-town tryouts faced criticism from some LGBTQ groups over creative choices—but the show is finally ready to raise its curtain on Broadway.

About Mrs. Doubtfire

Released in 1993, the American comedy film is remembered as one of Robin Williams’s signature works. It won the Academy Award for Best Makeup and Hairstyling and grossed approximately $441 million worldwide.

The story follows a divorced father who disguises himself as a Scottish nanny to spend time with his children—a hilarious premise that also delivers a heartfelt message about parental love and family bonds.

Video Interview – Rob McClure on playing Mrs. Doubtfire

Tony-nominated actor Rob McClure, known for Chaplin

Rob McClure, who stars as Mrs. Doubtfire, is a seasoned Broadway performer known for his work in comedies such as Avenue Q, Chaplin, Honeymoon in Vegas, Something Rotten!, and Beetlejuice.

His portrayal of Charlie Chaplin in the 2013 musical Chaplin earned him a Tony Award nomination for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical. Off stage, he married fellow actor Maggie Lakis in 2009 and is a devoted father to their young daughter.

A story that shows many forms of family and love

In the film, a father who has lost custody of his children after a divorce disguises himself as a housekeeper to see them again.

The stage musical puts greater focus on the children’s perspective, portraying their struggles, fears, and journey toward healing in the midst of their parents’ separation.

When Rob first watched the film, he asked a friend with divorced parents for their thoughts. They said, “I was happy to finally see a movie where the parents don’t get back together but it’s still a happy ending.”

McClure explained that divorce does not mean a family ceases to exist or that parents and children stop loving one another. “There are a hundred different ways to be a family,” he said. “Love isn’t limited by distance or time.”

He also spoke about the challenge of playing a role so closely associated with Robin Williams: “There’s pressure, of course, because his performance was so brilliant. But rather than imitate him, I want to bring my own voice and heart to Mrs. Doubtfire.”

A devoted father himself, Rob enjoys taking his daughter to the zoo or Central Park on his days off — a real-life dad who understands the themes of family and love at the core of this story.

Watch the interview with Rob McClure

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