#Harry Connick Jr. joins Taraji P. Henson for NBC’s ‘Annie Live!’

“Bet your bottom dollar” the latest “Annie Live!” casting announcement will thrill audiences.

Emmy and Grammy winner Harry Connick Jr. will join NBC’s upcoming holiday production of “Annie Live!” as one of Broadway’s favorite fathers, Sir Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks.

This isn’t the 53-year-old actor’s first time on the stage. Harry Connick Jr. scored Tony Award nominations for lead actor in “The Pajama Game” in 2006 and for composer/lyricist for 2001’s “Thou Shalt Not.”

Connick Jr. will lead the NBC production alongside Taraji P. Henson, who will play orphanage boss, Miss Hannigan.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to play Daddy Warbucks in ‘Annie Live!’ and working alongside Taraji P. Henson is a dream come true,” said Connick Jr.

“I love this show, and its musical message of love and hope couldn’t come at a better time.”

“Now that the amazing Harry Connick Jr. is set to embody Daddy Warbucks, we look forward to shaping the iconic role to tap Harry’s immense skill set as a multi-talented performer,” NBCU’s executive vice president of live events, specials, television and streaming, Jen Neal, said. “He and Taraji P. Henson will anchor the rest of the cast and we can’t wait to see their on-stage dynamic in our version of ‘Annie.’”

“We are thrilled to have Harry Connick Jr. playing Daddy Warbucks,” executive producer Robert Greenblatt added. “He’s a true entertainer who sings — and dances — with the best of them, and he will bring a completely fresh approach to this character. And he will give Taraji P. Henson‘s Miss Hannigan a run for her money for Annie!”

“Annie Live!” might have its Daddy Warbucks and Ms. Hannigan, but the nationwide search for the feisty orphan Annie is still underway. Anyone interested in auditioning can enter at CastItTalent.com/Annie_Live.

“Annie Live!” will air Thursday, Dec. 2 on NBC.