John Legend to Star in NBC's 'Jesus Christ Superstar' Live Musical
Oscar, Tony and 10-time Grammy winner, R&B crooner John Legend joins the cast of the musical Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert!
The musical will air on Easter Sunday on April 1. This won't be Legend's first time acting; he's appeared on "Curb Your Enthusiaism," "Soul Men" and "Underground," and had a supporting role in "La La Land."
"We're all overjoyed to have world-class musical artist and producer John Legend starring as Jesus," NBC Entertainment chairman Rwill air on Easter Sunday, April 1. obert Greenblatt said in a statement. "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. His casting is also groundbreaking as the traditional image of Christ will be seen in a new way."
The musical's lyricist Tim Rice added, "John Legend is a superstar. As a performer, his voice is infectious and effortless. As an actor, he is believable and honest. I'm thrilled he will be able to share his portrayal of Jesus with the world."
Meanwhile, Legend said, "I'm thrilled to join the cast of this production of Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert! It's such a powerful, meaningful musical and I'm humbled to be part of this performance. We've 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."
Rocker Alice Cooper was previously announced to play the role of King Herod. "Jesus Christ Superstar" is a fully-sung musical, and is based on the Gospels' accounts of the last week of Jesus' life, ending with the crucifixion but also focusing on political and personal struggles between Jesus and Judas Iscariot that are not part of Biblical teachings.
Tags : john legend Alice Cooper jesus christ superstar live musical john legend news
Hot Trends
-
The Tragic End of Kingdom Heir's Founder Steve French
-
“Radiating Joy: The Michelle Duppong Story” Coming To Theaters, Nov. 12
-
Former Avalon Singer Michael Passons Says He Was Let Go Because of His Sexuality
-
Joy Williams Reveals the Real Reason Behind Civil War's Breakup
-
Story Behind Chris Tomlin's New Song "Is He Worthy?"
-
TobyMac Accused of Dabbling with Satanic Occult
-
Coby James is Engaged!
-
Armond Morales, Member of The Imperials, Passes Away
-
Trace Adkins Deals with Sin and Redemption in a Unique Way with "Jesus and Jones"
-
Darlene Zschech's Daughter Weds
-
Sarah Reeves to Make Feature Film Debut in God’s Here; Composes Faith-Driven Soundtrack
-
Here Are Lyrics to Darlene Zschech's "Yes Again"
-
LeFevre Quartet Signs with Daywind Records
-
UNITED’s Joel Houston Is Dropping a Solo Project This Year
-
From Singer to Pastor: Scott Wesley Brown Reflects on His Career and His Future
Most Popular
-
The Tragic End of Kingdom Heir's Founder Steve French
-
“Radiating Joy: The Michelle Duppong Story” Coming To Theaters, Nov. 12
-
Former Avalon Singer Michael Passons Says He Was Let Go Because of His Sexuality
-
Joy Williams Reveals the Real Reason Behind Civil War's Breakup
-
Story Behind Chris Tomlin's New Song "Is He Worthy?"
-
TobyMac Accused of Dabbling with Satanic Occult
-
Coby James is Engaged!
-
Armond Morales, Member of The Imperials, Passes Away
-
Trace Adkins Deals with Sin and Redemption in a Unique Way with "Jesus and Jones"
-
Darlene Zschech's Daughter Weds
-
Sarah Reeves to Make Feature Film Debut in God’s Here; Composes Faith-Driven Soundtrack
-
Here Are Lyrics to Darlene Zschech's "Yes Again"
-
LeFevre Quartet Signs with Daywind Records
-
UNITED’s Joel Houston Is Dropping a Solo Project This Year
-
From Singer to Pastor: Scott Wesley Brown Reflects on His Career and His Future