John Legend to play Jesus in Webber musical

John Legend

Singer-songwriter John Legend is set to play Jesus of Nazareth in the coming live-concert version of the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical “Jesus Christ Superstar,” which will be broadcast on NBC from the Marcy Armory stage in New York City on Easter Sunday next year.

“I’m thrilled to join the cast of this production. It’s such a powerful, meaningful musical, and I’m humbled to be part of this performance,” he said in a statement. “We have already formed an incredible team and, as we finish casting, I’m certain we will put together some of the greatest talents around to do this work justice.”

Positive response

The 38-year-old music artist’s casting was met with positive response; the lead role has been played by mostly white actors.

“His casting is also groundbreaking as the traditional image of Christ will be seen in a new way,” pointed out Robert Greenblatt, chair of NBC Entertainment. “This score demands a singer with an amazing range and an actor with great depth, and there isn’t anyone better to bring this story to a new audience.”—ALLAN POLICARPIO