'Private Practice' Star Pregnant at 45

Six-time Tony Award winner Audra McDonald announced on Tuesday that she is expecting at the age of 45, and will be taking a maternity leave from her current role on Broadway's "Shuffle Along."

Rest easy fans. Her break starting July 24 is merely temporary. The actress said she plans to return to the musical this winter. While McDonald is off performing her new role of Mommy, the role of Lottie Gee will be played by Grammy winner Rhiannon Giddens. The production has also said the show's choreographer, Savion Glover, will step on stage as well.

McDonald married her husband, actor Will Swenson in 2012. "Who knew that tap dancing during perimenopause could lead to pregnancy? Will and I are completely surprised— and elated — to be expecting a new addition to our family," McDonald said.

Shuffle Along was one of the first Broadway shows starring, written by and directed by African Americans. It was the first show set to a jazz score.

McDonald also mentioned her excitement for bringing Shuffle Along's spirit to her blossoming family. She said she's excited to have a 1920's themed nursery ready to go in her dressing room when she returns to the show.

McDonald has a 15-year-old daughter, and Swenson has two sons from a previous marriage.