Alfie Boe admits its nearly time to “hang up the barricade jacket” and say goodbye to Les Misérables

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Although Hugh Jackman was well-known for playing a role in the 2012 film Les Misérables, it’s Alfie Boe whose smooth, rich voice has become strongly associated with the musical’s live performances for over ten years.

Since 2010, the singer has performed the role of Jean Valjean, the main character, at every significant anniversary concert. He consistently moves even the most stoic viewers to tears, using just a microphone and his powerfully emotional performance of Bring Him Home.

As a huge fan of this show, I’ve been following Boe‘s career for years! He’s seriously performed everywhere – the West End, Broadway, and even on the Arena Spectacular World Tour. And this week? He’s back! I managed to snag a ticket to the show’s sold-out 40th anniversary gala – it’s going to be amazing!

I think I’m nearing the point of retirement – putting away my favorite jacket and finishing up – but I’ll always cherish it. It will always be very special to me.

Boe explained that the music from Les Misérables especially moved him, describing it as an “absolute gift.” However, I began to consider why, given that it’s the longest-running musical globally, the show has become so meaningful for so many individuals.

He replied, stating: “I believe viewers can find something to relate to in each character, as the story touches upon many real-life situations.”

I’ve portrayed this character at various points in my life, and my understanding of him has evolved. For example, I became a father right as I began working on Les Misérables, and as I’ve grown as a father, my connection to the character has become much stronger and more meaningful.

Reflecting on his time with Les Misérables, Boe particularly enjoyed the remarkable experience of the 25th anniversary concert in 2010. He performed for a full house at the O2 Arena, sharing the stage with stars like Samantha Barks and Matt Lucas.

Both performers are scheduled to come back for the next gala, joining Michael Ball, who has frequently performed with Boe.

After collaborating many times over the years, I wondered if Boe had a particularly cherished moment with Ball. He shared, “I really enjoy performing the final scene I share with Michael in the sewers.” He explained, “The moment after I rescue Marius is a truly powerful and climactic point in their relationship, really highlighting their connection.”

Michael enjoys it as well, since that signals the end of his performance and he can relax in the dressing room with a glass of wine, whereas I still have 25 minutes to go!

However, on a more serious note, he continued: “We genuinely enjoy spending time together. He’s a really great person to collaborate with, and it’s wonderful to have him back with the show, especially since he was part of the original cast.”

Moving on to the other actors, Boe shared with affection that he’s always experienced a “family atmosphere” while working on Les Misérables.

He explained that the group feels like a family, and taking the lead role naturally extends that feeling. He feels a strong responsibility to support the cast and ensure everyone is okay. He makes an effort to be attentive to everyone’s concerns and problems. He used to keep his dressing room door open, inviting people to come in and chat about anything on their minds, and he really enjoyed those moments.

It feels like we’ve all come together – as a team, as a family – around something truly remarkable. We need to support each other through performing Les Misérables, and that creates a very strong bond.

The bond between Hugh Jackman (Boe), the actors, and the characters in Les Misérables will likely endure for many years to come. However, if the performer intends to retire from this role permanently, he delivered a clear message to the audience:

Simply immerse yourself. Immerse yourself in the experience. Immerse yourself in the music. Immerse yourself in the feelings. You don’t need any prior knowledge or to read the source material beforehand. Just come and enjoy the music, and feel everything.

If you allow yourself to feel all the emotions, it will deeply resonate with you and leave you wanting more.

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2025-10-05 12:35