Cynthia Erivo is pushing back against criticism following her casting as Jesus in an upcoming Hollywood Bowl production of Jesus Christ Superstar. The Tony-winning performer addressed the backlash, which largely stemmed from conservative circles objecting to a Black queer woman playing the role traditionally portrayed by a man.
In an interview with Billboard, Erivo offered a straightforward response. “Why not?” she said. “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.’”
Star-Studded Cast for a Limited Run
The production is scheduled for a limited run at the iconic Los Angeles venue from August 1–3. The staging brings a fresh take to Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s classic rock opera, first released as a concept album in 1970 and adapted for Broadway in 1971.
Erivo, who previously played Mary Magdalene in a 2020 all-female concert version of the musical, will now step into the central role of Jesus. Her previous performance included the powerful ballad “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” a standout moment in the show.
Joining Erivo is pop icon Adam Lambert, who will portray Judas. The creative team includes acclaimed director and choreographer Sergio Trujillo, with Tony and Grammy winner Stephen Oremus serving as both conductor and music director. The production is being staged in partnership with producers Neil Meron and Robert Greenblatt.
Revisiting a Groundbreaking Musical
Jesus Christ Superstar has seen numerous interpretations over the decades. A film adaptation directed by Norman Jewison premiered in 1973, and NBC’s Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert drew millions of viewers in 2018, with John Legend starring as Jesus and Sara Bareilles as Mary Magdalene.
This new Hollywood Bowl version continues that tradition of reimagining the work through diverse perspectives, a move that Erivo sees as in line with musical theater’s inherently inclusive spirit.
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Fan Reactions: Support and Debate
Social media has lit up with commentary since the casting announcement. Many fans praised the decision to cast Erivo, calling her a “visionary talent” and applauding the inclusive direction of the production.
“She’s a MEGASTAR & I don’t even think she’s scratched the surface of what she can do yet” one user posted on X, formerly Twitter. Another added, “Jesus was revolutionary. This casting is right in line with that.”
She’s a MEGASTAR & I don’t even think she’s scratched the surface of what she can do yet
— Herbie Kersen (@yourditarrie_) June 2, 2025
Still, others expressed disapproval, with some voicing concerns over what they see as a departure from tradition. “Not to sound like a conservative but this feels disrespectful and blasphemous” one critical commenter wrote.
Despite the mixed reactions, the production remains one of the summer’s most anticipated theater events in Los Angeles.
not to sound like a conservative but this feels disrespectful and blasphemous
— 𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐢 | 🕊️ (@positionsmafiaa) May 5, 2025
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