The latest news on Broadway concerns the revival of the David Mamet comedy, “Speed-the-Plow.” Apparently, Jeremy Piven has had to withdraw from the play, following an advice he received from his physician.

 

Jeremy Piven, the star from “Entourage,” had to leave the production earlier this week, after he had already asked to be released earlier from the play. His doctor advised him to withdraw from performing, because tests showed that the actor was suffering from elevated levels of mercury. This effect seems to be the result of a diet very rich in fish.

 

Yesterday, the producers of the play “Speed-the-Plow” have announced that Jeremy Piven, whose part in the play was of Hollywood producer Bobby Gould, has left the play, and that his part will be taken over by Norbert Leo Butz and, later on, by William H.

 

Macy. Norbert Leo Butz is to play Bobby Gould from Tuesday through January 11th, and William H. Macy is to take it on from January 13th through February 22nd, when the show is scheduled to close at the Ethel Barrymore Theater. Piven’s understudy, Jordan Lage, will continue to perform as Bobby Gould through Sunday.

 

Piven, Raul Esparza and Elisabeth Moss have been starring together in “Speed-the-Plow” ever since the previews began back on October 3^rd. According to Ben Brantley, from the New York Times, “Mr. Piven has the pivotal role, and he executes it with uncanny grace and intelligence.”