Cynthia Erivo sparks ‘blasphemy’ outrage as Wicked star cast as JESUS in Jesus Christ Superstar production: ‘Downright DISRESPECTFUL!’
Cynthia Erivo has been cast as Jesus in the Hollywood Bowl’s upcoming production of Jesus Christ Superstar, set to run from August 1-3
The Emmy, Grammy and Tony winner, who is currently nominated for an Oscar for her role in Wicked, will take the lead in Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s classical musical.
Erivo, 38, shared her excitement about the role on Instagram, writing: “Just a little busy this Summer, can’t wait.”
The London-born star will make history as the first woman to lead a high-profile production of the rock opera, which tells the story of Jesus’s final days.
Erivo is no stranger to the musical, having previously starred as Mary Magdalene in an all-female concept album version titled Jesus Christ Superstar: She Is Risen in 2020.
In that production, she performed the iconic number I Don’t Know How to Love Him. Morgan James took on the role of Jesus in the 2020 album version.
The production will be directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner Sergio Trujillo. Stephen Oremus, also a Tony winner, will serve as musical director and conductor.
The show is being produced in association with Neil Meron and Robert Greenblatt. Bernie Telsey’s The Telsey Office handled the casting for the production.
Additional cast members will be announced at a later date.
Jesus Christ Superstar was initially released as a concept album before making its Broadway debut in 1971.
The rock opera tells the story of Jesus’s final days through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. Notable past productions include the 1973 film adaptation starring Ted Neeley as Jesus.
John Legend took on the role of Jesus in NBC’s 2018 Easter Sunday live television production, which featured Sara Bareilles as Mary Magdalene.
The musical features iconic songs including Superstar, Gethsemane, and I Don’t Know How to Love Him.
The casting announcement has sparked divided reactions on social media, with several branding the decision as “blasphemous” and “disrespectful” while supporters have lauded the news.
One fan complained in response to the Instagram announcement: “I think you were great in wicked, we’re playing Jesus is very, very disrespectful and you should know better… It’s downright disrespectful and has nothing to do with the color, has to do with the fact that the son of God is a man, and respecting that fact alone should let you know to take on this opportunity or not… Shame on you and the Hollywood bowl… If this was another religion, you would not do it out of respect.”
A second concurred: “Absolute blasphemy. may god be merciful to those who taunt him, and disobey his word. for you are lost, and i will pray for you to be found. We still love you but this is unacceptable as a Christian.”
“Jesus is a MAN not a woman!!!” a third raged before a fourth hit out: “This is blasphemous. Such a wicked generation we live in where most people approve the mockery of God.”
However, Erivo and the Hollywood Bowl also received some support from eager theatre-goers, including one who argued: “Cynthia Erivo as Jesus Christ! SOLD!!”
And another similarly praised: “LET’S GOOOOOOOOOOOOO she will be an amazing jesus,” followed by a love heart emoji. (sic)
The Hollywood Bowl’s production marks the venue’s return to summer musicals following a COVID-19 pandemic hiatus.
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“We missed the musicals for a few years, and I think that one is a good one to return with,” said LA Phil President and Chief Executive Kim Noltemy.
The production is part of a star-studded summer season that includes performances by Diana Ross, Hugh Jackman, Cyndi Lauper, and John Legend.
It will also be one of conductor Gustavo Dudamel’s final seasons at the Bowl before he departs for the New York Philharmonic in 2026.