Ryan Molloy announces Jersey Boys departure after six years in role

WhatsOnStage Award winner Ryan Molloy has announced he is leaving West End long-runner Jersey Boys after over six years playing Frankie Valli.

In a pun-laden statement released on Facebook and Twitter earlier today, Molloy confirmed his last performance will be on 9 March 2014, before the show transfers from the Prince Edward to the Piccadilly Theatre.

"Although I’ve been the big man in town (London) for more than six years and everybody knows my name, it’s time to walk like a man into the night," he said.

"Whilst breaking up is hard to do, I’ve had an offer that’s too good to be true (to be announced soon!)
A massive part of me says – let’s hang on to what we’ve got and I know some people are beggin' and saying oh won’t you stay… but remember… big girls don’t cry so, don’t cry for me and think that the sun ain’t gonna shine anymore. Just remember who loves you pretty baby."

Jersey Boys, which is based on the story and songs of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, is the winner of 55 major awards worldwide. The show originally opened on Broadway in 2006, receiving the Tony Award for Best Musical.

Molloy, 37, who originated the role of Frankie in the West End in 2008, holds the record as the longest-serving Frankie Valli and the longest-running star of a West End musical.

He added: "Thank you all for your support over the last six years, I’ve got lots planned for 2014 and look forward to seeing you all at future gigs and shows."

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