Anthony Ramos criticizes Madonna for disrespectful behavior during a performance.
Former “Hamilton” star Anthony Ramos has recently drawn attention to pop icon Madonna’s behavior during a performance of the acclaimed Broadway production. While participating in an episode of “Watch What Happens Live,” Ramos shared his experience of seeing Madonna in the audience, specifically noting her extensive use of an iPad throughout the performance.
During the interview, Ramos, who was acclaimed for his portrayals of John Laurens and Philip Hamilton in the musical, was asked by host Andy Cohen about the most intimidating celebrity he encountered while in the show. He recounted the experience with Madonna, stating that her focus seemed solely on her device rather than the performance itself. Ramos expressed his surprise at her apparent disinterest, suggesting that if she was not enjoying the show, she might have chosen to leave.
This incident echoes a previous issue involving the legendary singer at a “Hamilton” performance in 2015. At that time, the show’s creator, Lin-Manuel Miranda, tweeted about an unnamed celebrity who had disrupted the experience for others by texting throughout the second act. Following that performance, sources revealed that Madonna not only arrived late but also engaged with her phone multiple times during the show. As a result, she was reportedly denied backstage access due to her disruptive behavior.
The discussion around Madonna’s etiquette at performances brings to mind an earlier incident from 2013, when she was notably seen texting during the New York Film Festival premiere of “12 Years a Slave.” This behavior led the Alamo Drafthouse cinema chain to ban her from their theaters until she publicly apologized to the audience.
In a notable contrast, Madonna has made attempts to rectify her past behavior. During her 2019 Madame X Tour, she instituted a strict cellphone ban, requiring attendees to secure their devices in pouches for the duration of the concert. Feedback from this initiative was overwhelmingly positive, as attendees reported appreciating the opportunity to engage with the performance without distractions. This move was part of Madonna’s efforts to create a more intimate atmosphere by performing in smaller venues designed to enhance audience connection.
As the conversation about celebrity behaviors at live performances continues, Ramos’ remarks serve as a reminder of the expectations placed on public figures, both on and off the stage.