Linda Eder

Linda Eder (born February 3, 1961) is an adult contemporary singer who is best known for originating the role of Lucy in Jekyll and Hyde. She has sometimes been nicknamed “The Reluctant Diva” because of her down-to-earth personality and lifestyle.

Raised in Minnesota by her immigrant parents, Eder toured her home state as a singer before appearing on Star Search in 1987, where she stayed in first place for twelve weeks. Her winning streak was noticed by composer Frank Wildhorn, who guided her towards a recording deal and a debut album, Vienna (UK)/Linda Eder* (US).

He also cast her as Lucy in his new musical, Jekyll and Hyde, a role she played in various reincarnations of the show until its Broadway debut in 1997. During this time, Eder and Wildhorn began dating. She continued her contemporary pop career outside of work on Jekyll…, including successful concert tours. In 1998, she and Wildhorn married, and their son, Jake, was born in 1999.

Linda Eder as Lucy in the Broadway production of Jekyll and Hyde, along with Christiane Noll and Robert Cuccioli.

Eder’s next stage role was as the lead in Wildhorn’s Camille Claudel, through Goodspeed Musicals. Soon after, Eder and Wildhorn formally separated and later divorced, although they continue to work together professionally.

As of 2016, Linda Eder has released 18 solo albums in all, and continues to tour annually.