'Mormon' stars extend contracts

NEW YORK, Jan. 23 (UPI) -- Josh Gad, Andrew Rannells, Nikki M. James and Rory O'Malley have extended their contracts with the Broadway musical "The Book of Mormon" through February 2013.

Original cast members Michael Potts, Lewis Cleale and Brian Tyree Henry are also to continue with the Tony Award-winning show through the next year, the stage comedy's producers said Monday.

The musical, which has a book, music and lyrics by Trey Parker, Robert Lopez and Matt Stone, opened last February to rave reviews and blockbuster ticket sales.

"It's unfortunate for my knees, but I feel like it is unfair to let my costars continue having all the fun without me. I could not be more thrilled to continue to play Elder Cunningham," Gad said in a statement.

"The producers said they would release the location of where they are holding my family if I re-signed," Rannells said. "I love my family and want to see them returned safely. So here I am."

"This past year was incredible. It was nothing I could have imagined in my wildest of dreams," said James. "I am thrilled to be able to continue to hear audiences laugh their asses off for another year. Plus, I'm madly in love with my co-stars and cast mates. It's truly unhealthy."