Shy’m Extends Hiatus from ‘Chicago’ Musical Due to Ongoing Health Issues

Shy’m, the French singer and performer, is extending her exit of absence from the musical Chicago at the Casino de Paris due to persistent health concerns. The artist, who began portraying Velma Kelly in November 2025, has experienced recurring dizziness that prevents her from performing, despite a brief return to the stage in January 2026.

Brief Return and Subsequent Withdrawal

Shy’m initially paused her performances in mid-December 2025 on medical advice . She briefly resumed her role on January 24th and 25th, 2026, but ultimately determined she needed to prolong her absence. In a statement on Instagram on February 13, 2026, Shy’m explained the difficulty of the situation, stating she hoped for a swift return but acknowledged she wasn’t yet ready .

Role Taken Over by Marianne Orlowski

Stage Entertainment France has appointed Marianne Orlowski to cover the role of Velma Kelly during Shy’m’s extended absence. Orlowski had previously served as a substitute for both Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart in previous productions of Chicago . Lisa Lanteri initially filled in during Shy’m’s first leave.

Balancing Career and Family

Shy’m’s participation in Chicago presented challenges in balancing her career with her family life, particularly with her four-year-old son, Tahoma. She expressed feelings of guilt about spending less time at home, acknowledging the temporary sacrifices required by the demanding performance schedule .

About Chicago

Chicago, a musical set in the 1920s, tells the story of Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, two women who manipulate the press and public opinion to escape murder charges and achieve fame. The show has won six Tony Awards and remains the longest-running American musical on Broadway and the West End since its 1996 premiere . The current production at the Casino de Paris, featuring Shy’m in the cast when health permits, runs until April 26, 2026 .