Natalie Mendoza, one of the lead actresses in "Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark," is reportedly leaving the $65 million show, in yet another major blow to the most expensive Broadway production ever staged.
The much-hyped production has suffered a series of setbacks while still in previews -- including serious injuries to four cast members. And now, The New York Times reports that Mendoza, who sustained a concussion during a performance last month, has quit.
Bruce Glikas, FilmMagic
Natalie Mendoza poses backstage after the opening-night preview in November of "Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark" in New York City. After suffering a concussion during a performance last month, she has left the show.
Mendoza, 30, played the role of Arachne, a major villain in "Spider-Man" and an integral part of the show. She took two weeks off to recover after she was hit by a heavy rope attached to a piece of backstage equipment during a Nov. 28 performance.
Then, on Dec. 20, Christopher Tierney, one of the show's key stuntmen, fell more than 20 feet when his harness failed. Although he broke several ribs, suffered a bruised lung and was forced to undergo back surgery, Tierney, 31, has vowed to return.
Mendoza has not commented on her departure. On Dec. 21, she asked her Twitter followers to pray for Tierney. "Please pray with me for my friend Chris, my superhero who quietly inspires me everyday with his spirit. A light in my heart went dim tonight," the actress tweeted.
Another actor, Kevin Aubin, broke his wrists in October while working on a stunt during the production, and another cast member, a dancer, injured his feet trying to perform the same move.
The injuries have delayed the show's opening by nearly two months, to Feb. 7. "Spider-Man" spokesman Rick Miramontez did not immediately return a request for comment today from AOL News, and Mendoza could not be located for comment.
The show was created by Julie Taymor, with music by U2's Bono and the Edge.