Stressed Smith takes time out from show

SHERIDAN SMITH has been forced to withdraw from the West End show Funny Girl for up to a month after suffering from “stress and exhaustion”, it was announced yesterday.

Smith’s understudy, Natasha J Barnes, will play the role of Fanny Brice while Smith takes a two to fourweek leave of absence.

Audiences had been left wondering each evening whether Smith would appear and it is understood matters came to a head yesterday, when she pulled out of the show at the Savoy Theatre for the third night running.

It follows what the theatre called a “very difficult” period for the actress, which has seen her engage in public spats with critics, press and fans on Twitter.

The producers said: “Sheridan Smith will be taking leave of absence from

Funny Girl, due to stress and exhaustion. The entire team is thinking of Sheridan, and know she is getting the rest and support she needs during this very difficult and stressful time. We will all miss her enormously and send her our love and best wishes – and we are looking forward to her return to the show in due course.”

Smith had received critical acclaim for her performances as Fanny Brice, the role made famous by Barbra Streisand in the 1968 film version of the musical.