A Bitter battle over Daniel Radcliffe has erupted between producers of Broadway’s “How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” and the Hollywood studio behind the final “Harry Potter” movie.
Radcliffe, who stars in both the show and the film, had committed to appear in the revival of “How To Succeed” at the Hirschfeld Theatre, which started previews on Feb. 26 and runs until at least Nov. 6. But Warner Bros. chiefs were furious that his Broadway deal meant he might not be available to promote “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2,” to be launched with a lavish premiere at London’s Trafalgar Square on July 7.
In tense negotiations, “How To Succeed” producers refused to release Radcliffe for the days when Warner needed him — forcing the studio to buy out the whole theater for the nights he’d have to miss.
A source told us, “Warner Bros. is furious that Radcliffe committed to Broadway when he should be promoting ‘Harry Potter.’
“This is the final film, so it’s a big deal. A grand world premiere is being planned as well as a US premiere and a press tour. They absolutely couldn’t do it without their big star. But the theater producers dug their heels in and said they wouldn’t release Radcliffe unless Warner bought out the entire theater for the nights they need him.
“Studio bosses are furious, but they have no choice but to pay up for five nights costing over $500,000.”
A Telecharge sales agent said that while tickets are being sold up to Nov. 6, tickets for July 5 and 6 have “not been released,” although they haven’t yet been canceled. Tickets for July 9 are currently on sale.
Radcliffe’s rep said, “Everything is fine, Dan is promoting the film and is happy to do so. With all productions there are scheduling issues but everything has all been worked out. Warner Bros. is very supportive of Dan, and there is no issue.”
Reps for “How To Succeed” producers Broadway Across America didn’t get back to us. A Warner rep declined to comment.