Boy George has pulled out of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s Jesus Christ Superstar at the London Palladium just days before he was due to join the production as King Herod.
The Culture Club frontman had been scheduled to appear in the role from 3 to 15 August 2026 as part of the show’s rotating cast. His withdrawal was confirmed on 30 July by his manager, Paul Kemsley.
Boy George’s manager confirms withdrawal
Kemsley announced the news in a statement shared on social media, saying:
“After careful consideration, I have decided, in my capacity as Boy George’s manager, that he will no longer be appearing in Jesus Christ Superstar at the London Palladium.
The decision has been made with the utmost respect for the producers, the creative team and the entire company. We are grateful for the professionalism and understanding they have shown throughout and sincerely wish everyone involved every success with the production.”
No reason was given for Boy George’s decision to leave the production.
Withdrawal follows release of controversial new song
The announcement comes just days after Boy George released “We Will Dance Again”, a reggae-influenced song expressing support for Israel following the 7 October 2023 attacks.
The track opens with the lyric:
“You say genocide, I say war”
The song rejects the description of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza as genocide and also criticises musicians who have publicly voiced support for Palestine.
Its release prompted criticism on social media, including from actor Patrick Clanton, who previously appeared alongside Boy George in the Broadway production of Moulin Rouge!.
According to reports, Clanton said he was “embarrassed” to have worked with the singer.
Richard Armitage to cover King Herod role
According to NME, Richard Armitage, who is currently playing King Herod in the production, will cover the performances originally scheduled for Boy George.
Jesus Christ Superstar continues its run at the London Palladium with its planned rotating cast despite the late change.
