80s pop legend, Strictly finalist and Hobbit star to share the role of King Herod in Jesus Christ Superstar

In a surprising and historic decision, six major stars – all well-known actors from stage and screen – will each play the role of King Herod in the new West End production of Jesus Christ Superstar.

Sam Ryder, who recently finished second in Eurovision, will share the role of Jesus with a talented group of performers. They include Jesse Tyler Ferguson from ‘Modern Family,’ Simon Russell Beale known for ‘The Death of Stalin,’ Richard Armitage from ‘The Hobbit’ and ‘Spooks,’ 80s singer Boy George, ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ finalist Layton Williams, and comedian Julian Clary.

The six will be splitting the role between them across the show’s 11-week run.

The part of Herod in this musical is usually played by a recognizable actor from television or the stage, and is limited to just one song. The 2012 UK arena tour featured radio personality Chris Moyles in the role, but this production has attracted an unprecedented number of famous performers vying for the part.

Director Tim Sheader expressed excitement about having six different actors play King Herod in the show, describing them all as fabulous. He joked that each actor will briefly bring the entire production to a halt when they demand Jesus perform a miracle – walking across their swimming pool – as the over-the-top, yet dangerous, Herod. He promises audiences a memorable, glittering moment with each performance.

I’m still waiting to hear who will play the roles of Mary Magdalene and Judas, along with the rest of the actors in the film. They haven’t announced the full cast yet!

Ryder was announced as the actor playing Jesus back in fall 2025. He expressed his excitement, saying he was thrilled to join such a renowned musical as Jesus Christ Superstar at London’s Palladium. He felt honored to follow in the footsteps of famous rock singers like Ian Gillan and John Farnham who previously played the role, and was eager to begin working on the show in 2026.

When it first premiered in London, Jesus Christ Superstar played for over eight years, becoming the longest-running show in London’s West End at the time.

Jesus Christ Superstar, created by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, offers a fresh take on the story of the Last Supper and the Crucifixion, told through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. The musical features iconic songs like “Heaven on Their Minds,” “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” and “Superstar.”

Tickets are now on sale, so here’s what you need to know.

Who is playing Herod in Jesus Christ Superstar and when?

Jesse Tyler Ferguson – 20 Jun – 11 Jul
Simon Russell Beale – 13 – 25 Jul
Richard Armitage – 27 Jul – 1 Aug
Boy George – 3 – 15 Aug
Layton Williams – 17 – 29 Aug
Julian Clary – 31 Aug – 5 Sep

When is Jesus Christ Superstar coming to the West End?

The show will have a strictly limited run lasting from 20th June through to 5th September 2026.

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Where is Jesus Christ Superstar playing at the West End?

You can see Jesus Christ Superstar at the famous London Palladium, located in the heart of the West End. It’s easy to get to – just go to Oxford Circus station, which is served by the Victoria, Bakerloo, and Central lines.

How to get tickets to Jesus Christ Superstar at the West End

Tickets are now on sale at LW Theatres.

Authors

Olivia Garrett

2026-02-23 15:40