Cynthia Erivo responds to Jesus Christ Superstar casting backlash after being announced for the lead in the stage production at The Hollywood Bowl this August. The Tony award-winning actress will appear as Jesus in the limited three-night event, with Adam Lambert set to portray Judas, prompting conversations around her selection for the iconic role.
Public Reaction and Erivo’s Address
The decision to cast Cynthia Erivo, who is both Black and queer and came out publicly in 2022, attracted criticism from some who cited her identity as a point of contention. Erivo spoke directly about the backlash during an interview with Billboard and shared her perspective on the matter.
“Why not? You can’t please everyone. It is legitimately a three-day performance at the Hollywood Bowl where I get to sing my face off. So hopefully they will come and realize, ‘Oh, it’s a musical, the gayest place on Earth.’”
—Cynthia Erivo, Actress and Performer
Background and Expectations for the Performance
Jesus Christ Superstar is a famous rock opera that depicts Jesus’ final days through the viewpoint of Judas, who is remembered in the Bible for his betrayal as one of Jesus’ twelve disciples. Cynthia Erivo previously played Mary Magdalene in another revival of the musical, demonstrating her familiarity with its narrative and themes. The upcoming performances are scheduled for August 1 to August 3 at The Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.
Significance and Ongoing Conversation
This casting has sparked ongoing debate about representation and inclusion in prominent stage roles, particularly in productions as well-known as Jesus Christ Superstar. By taking on the lead, Cynthia Erivo continues to influence discussions about identity in performance arts, while Adam Lambert’s participation as Judas also adds to the high-profile nature of the event. The limited run is expected to draw significant attention and may prompt broader discussions about casting, tradition, and diversity in the performing arts.
