Broadway Stars Orfeh and Andy Karl: A Journey Through Their Relationship
Discover the love story of former Broadway actors Orfeh and Andy Karl, from their on-stage chemistry to their real-life romance that began with a wedding in 2001 and later faced a heartbreaking breakup after nearly 23 years.
Broadway Actors Orfeh and Andy Karl's Complete Relationship Timeline: The Way They Were
Orfeh and Andy Karl. Bruce Glikas/WireImage
Orfeh and Andy Karl were one of Broadway’s power couples before their May 2024 separation.
Orfeh and Karl met on the set of Broadway’s Saturday Night Fever in 2000.
Karl once shared with Theatermania in 2014 that he used to gaze at a billboard of her photo outside the theater doors at the Minskoff. He was determined to be a part of the show and even thought to himself, "I'm going to be in this show and that girl will be mine." Karl couldn't help but admire her beauty as he stared at her photo.
After six months, Karl finally got the opportunity to join the show and meet Orfeh. It was a moment of instant attraction for both of them, with Orfeh describing it as "love at first sight." The couple decided to elope just six months later in January 2001.
Orfeh shared with Theatermania that no one knew they were dating because they kept it very private. It wasn't until closing night when people started asking if they were dating, to which they revealed that they were actually engaged.
Even after getting married, Orfeh and Karl continued to perform together on stage multiple times. However, after being together for 23 years, they announced their separation in May 2024.
Keep scrolling to revisit Orfeh and Karl’s relationship timeline through the years:
2000
Karl joined the cast of Saturday Night Fever on Broadway as a replacement, while Orfeh was an original cast member.
In a 2015 interview with Playbill, Karl shared that he was immediately drawn to Orfeh, but played it cool. Despite his initial doubts, he tried to strike up conversations with her. Eventually, they both realized they were looking for the same thing and a mutual connection formed. Karl described Orfeh as a unique phenomenon that he had never seen before, making their relationship special and one-of-a-kind.
January 2001
The pair dated for five months before getting engaged. Weeks later, Orfeh and Karl eloped in South Beach.
Broadway Actors Orfeh and Andy Karl's Complete Relationship Timeline: The Way They Were
Bruce Glikas/FilmMagic
2007
Orfeh and Karl reunited on stage in April for Legally Blonde the Musical. Orfeh took on the role of Paulette, originally played by Jennifer Coolidge in the 2001 film, while Karl portrayed Kyle the UPS Guy, Paulette's love interest.
August 2017
Orfeh and Karl's roles in "Legally Blonde" served as the inspiration for their collaborative cabaret show titled "Legally Bound" at Feinstein's 54 Below in New York City. They also recorded and released the performance on a CD.
Broadway Actors Orfeh and Andy Karl's Complete Relationship Timeline: The Way They Were
Walter McBride/Getty Images
2018
In 2018, Karl and Orfeh reunited on Broadway in Pretty Woman the Musical. Karl played the role of Edward Lewis, originally portrayed by Richard Gere, while Orfeh took on the character of Vivian's best friend Kit, originally played by Laura San Giacomo. Samantha Barks played the role of Vivian Ward.
Broadway Actors Orfeh and Andy Karl's Complete Relationship Timeline: The Way They Were
Jemal Countess/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions
February 2024
Karl reprised his Tony-nominated role of Phil Connors in Groundhog Day the Musical during its Australian run and Orfeh remained his biggest cheerleader.
My hubby, @andy_karl, is truly amazing! I posted my congratulations to him on Instagram on February 1st. And even though we were on opposite sides of the world for Valentine's Day, with me in New York, we still found a way to celebrate together.
May 2024
The couple confirmed their separation in a joint Instagram statement on May 14.
After being together for 23 years in a loving relationship, both on and off stage, we have decided to separate. It can be tough to maintain a strong marriage, especially when working in different parts of the world, but we are dedicated to creating a bright future, whether together or apart. We kindly request for privacy and respect during this time.
Editor's P/S:
Orfeh and Andy Karl's separation after 23 years of marriage is a testament to the complexities of maintaining a relationship in the demanding world of Broadway. Their story highlights the challenges of balancing personal and professional lives, especially when careers take individuals in different directions. Despite their separation,
