Cynthia Erivo isn’t letting conservative criticism dull her shine. The Wicked star recently addressed the backlash over her upcoming role as Jesus in the Jesus Christ Superstar musical at the Hollywood Bowl, brushing off controversy with grace, humor, and unapologetic confidence. Read more inside.
When it was announced earlier this year that Erivo, a Black queer woman, would play Jesus in the famed Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice rock opera, critics quickly took to social media to voice their disapproval. But in a recent interview with Billboard, the Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Award winner made it clear she’s unfazed.
“Why not?” Erivo said of her casting, chuckling at the backlash. “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.’”
The limited run of Jesus Christ Superstar will take place from August 1–3 at the iconic Hollywood Bowl, with Erivo leading the cast as Jesus and pop-rock star Adam Lambert playing Judas. The musical reimagines the final days of Jesus Christ through the lens of his betrayer, and it has a rich history dating back to its debut as a concept album in 1970 and its Broadway bow in 1971. It has since been revived multiple times, including a celebrated film adaptation in 1973.
Erivo’s casting isn’t her first interaction with the musical. She previously played Mary Magdalene in an all-female concept album version led by singer Morgan James. This time, though, she’s center stage as the titular figure, a move that both challenges tradition and celebrates inclusivity.
Since coming out publicly on the cover of British Vogue in 2022, Erivo has been an outspoken advocate for authenticity and representation in the arts. Her casting not only pushes creative boundaries, but it also opens doors for more diverse interpretations of beloved works.
For Erivo, the moment isn’t about controversy. Instead, it’s about music, passion, and reclaiming space. “I get to sing my face off,” she said. And that alone, for many fans, is reason enough to be in the audience.
Will you catch her performance at the Hollywood Bowl this summer?
