Understudy Hannah Lowther Denies Feud with Legally Blonde Star Amber Davies
Hannah Lowther, the understudy for Amber Davies in the West End production of Legally Blonde: The Musical, has publicly addressed claims of a 'brewing feud' between the two performers. In a recent Instagram post, Lowther expressed frustration at being constantly compared to Davies, describing the situation as 'exhausting'.
Health Issues Force Mid-Show Departure
The controversy emerged after Amber Davies, 29, was forced to leave a performance of Legally Blonde mid-show due to illness. The Strictly Come Dancing star, who plays leading lady Elle Woods, has been battling health problems that she attributes to a demanding schedule. Following her departure, understudy Hannah Lowther stepped into the role, prompting widespread discussion among theatregoers and online commentators.
Davies has since revealed she's suffering from burnout after transitioning directly from The Great Gatsby to a last-minute Strictly appearance and then immediately beginning her Legally Blonde run. In an Instagram health update, she explained she's taking antibiotics and will be off-stage indefinitely to recover properly.
Social Media Statement Against Comparisons
Hannah Lowther, a TikTok favourite with 1.3 million followers who trained at the Italia Conti Academy, took to Instagram to address the growing speculation about tension between herself and Davies. Sharing a clip of herself preparing for a performance, she wrote: 'One day I hope that we will be able to live in a world where women aren't pit against each other and compared ALL the time...'
She continued: 'A world where we can all succeed, thrive or just simply exist without people trying to tear us down.' Alongside the video, Lowther added: 'Exhausting actually…please be kind', expressing her weariness with the constant comparisons.
Public Support and Professional Solidarity
Shortly after Lowther's post, Amber Davies showed her support in the comments section, writing: 'We’ve got each other always', accompanied by a heart emoji. This public display of solidarity appears to contradict rumours of backstage tension between the two performers.
However, sources previously suggested to Daily Mail+ that there were simmering tensions behind the scenes, with some peers reportedly believing Lowther to be 'a million times better' in the role. The attention surrounding Lowther's performances has reportedly become difficult for the cast to ignore, creating what one insider described as 'a bit tense' atmosphere at times.
Audience Reactions and Online Commentary
Fans have taken to social media to praise Hannah Lowther's performances when she steps in for Davies. One audience member shared a clip from a show where Lowther switched from playing Margot (Elle's friend) to Elle Woods mid-performance, calling her 'a superhero'.
Online commentary has sometimes been harsh toward Davies, with one social media user commenting: 'Amber gives us nothing while Hannah gives us everything.' Last month, a clip circulated showing Davies briefly losing track of choreography during a preview performance and looking to Lowther to copy her movements, which Davies later described as 'embarrassing' in a TikTok video addressing the incident.
Broader Context of Theatre Understudy Dynamics
The situation highlights the complex dynamics that can develop between principal performers and their understudies in high-profile theatrical productions. While understudies are essential to ensuring shows continue when lead actors are unavailable, their occasional standout performances can sometimes create challenging comparisons.
Both Davies and Lowther have emphasized the importance of supporting fellow performers rather than engaging in competitive comparisons. Davies' health struggles and Lowther's call for kindness reflect the physical and emotional demands of maintaining eight-show weekly schedules in West End productions.
As Davies continues her recovery, the production of Legally Blonde: The Musical continues with Lowther and other understudies prepared to step in as needed, demonstrating the essential role understudies play in the theatre ecosystem while navigating the public scrutiny that comes with high-profile productions.
