Hollywood star Glenn Close will appear in the West End production of Jesus Christ Superstar as King Herod. The award-winning actress, 79, best known for Fatal Attraction, will appear opposite Sam Ryder as Jesus for the show’s final run on the London stage in January.
Star-Studded Final Week
The hit musical by Sir Tim Rice and Lord Lloyd-Webber follows the events of the last days of the life of Jesus Christ, as seen through the eyes of Judas. Director Tim Sheader said: “Wow, what a blast to have Glenn Close Superstar in the house for our final week in London.”
“I can’t wait for her artistry and imagination to meet the show.” Close will conclude the season at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, after it was extended for 12 weeks during which the role will be shared among nine performers.
Herod Role Rotation
Kicking off next week, White Collar star Matt Bomer will portray the king from October 16 to 31 before Gavin And Stacey actor Rob Brydon takes on the crown from November 2 to 7. The other names to play Herod include Inside No 9 star Reece Shearsmith (November 9–14), Bob The Drag Queen (November 16–21), singer Michael Ball (November 23–December 5), and Death Of Stalin actor Sir Simon Russell Beale (December 7–12).
Comedian Omid Djalili will take on the role from December 14 to 19, followed by Bad Education actor Layton Williams from December 21 to January 2, with Close wrapping up the London show from January 4 to 9 before it heads on a UK tour.
A Triumphant Close
Producer Michael Harrison added: “I am thrilled that we will welcome such an esteemed actor as Glenn Close in the final week that audiences will have to experience Tim Sheader’s spectacular production in London.”
“After a run of magnificent Herods, I am certain Glenn will bring the season at Theatre Royal Drury Lane to a triumphant close, following our London Palladium run where there wasn’t a single empty seat or standing place in the house.” Close is a three-time Emmy, Golden Globe and Tony Award-winner whose memorable screen roles include Alex Forrest in Fatal Attraction, Marquise Isabelle de Merteuil in Dangerous Liaisons, Cruella de Vil in 101 Dalmatians, and Patty Hewes in Damages.
The academy-award nominee will soon appear in The Hunger Games: Sunrise On The Reaping opposite Ralph Fiennes, Kieran Culkin, Elle Fanning and Billy Porter.
