 However, gossip maven Liz Smith reported in her January 12, 2007 "New York Post" column that Leachman was sent a letter informing her she would not be considered for the Broadway production because the producers wanted to keep the film and stage properties separate (and also because of Brooks' concerns over Leachman's ability to perform the character consistently at her age).Despite this, due to Leachman's success on "Dancing with the Stars", Brooks reportedly asked her to reprise her role as Frau Blucher after Beth Leavel left the production.However, the production closed before Leachman could take over the role.