Glee‘s Alex Newell Cancels Attic Youth Center 20th Anniversary Gala Appearance

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Just got word that Glee‘s Alex Newell, who was scheduled to perform at The Attic Youth Center‘s (AYC) 20th Anniversary Gala on Saturday, cancelled his appearance “due to unforeseen filming obligations.” According to Gala Co-Chair Scott Barnes, Newell’s agent called on Monday to say that the entire Glee cast is required to be on set this weekend to re-film scenes that featured recently deceased cast member Cory Monteith.

The last-minute cancellation sent Barnes into full-blown damage control, but he was able to quickly snatch up Jai Rodriguez to take Newell’s place. As you probably know, Rodriguez came to national fame as one of the stars of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, and he made waves on Broadway as Angel in Rent. Barnes says Rodriguez is being a total sport. He will tour the Attic Youth Center on Saturday afternoon, and will be there to meet Gala guests during the VIP reception. He will be joined by The Apprentice‘s Omarosa, who will serve as the evening’s live auctioneer.

Barnes says Newell is scheduled to return to Philly down the road to pick up his role-model award from AYC, meet-and-greet with ticket holders and perform a 30-minute concert.

The Attic Youth Center’s 20th Anniversary Gala takes place at the Crystal Tea Room on Sat., Nov. 16 at 6 p.m. (VIP reception) or 7 p.m. (regular admission). The event is currently sold out. Stay tuned to G Philly next week for a play-by-play and photos.