Hollywood Bowl Jesus Christ Superstar Sparks Racial, Gender Casting Debate

The 2025 Hollywood Bowl production of Jesus Christ Superstar features Cynthia Erivo, a Black LGBTQ woman, as Jesus, with Adam Lambert playing Judas. Erivo's casting has ignited controversy, with some Christians objecting to a woman and person of color portraying Jesus, emphasizing the biblical depiction of Jesus as a Jewish man from first-century Judea. Erivo dismissed the criticism by highlighting the musical's nature and the freedom of theatrical interpretation, stating, "Why not? You can’t please everyone." Lambert strongly defended Erivo, praising her talent and urging audiences to embrace the provocative spirit of the musical, which he said should transcend gender. The production, directed by Tony winner Sergio Trujillo and music-directed by Stephen Oremus, runs August 1-3 and includes other notable cast members such as Milo Manheim, Raúl Esparza, Phillipa Soo, and John Stamos, who replaced Josh Gad due to COVID. The show continues the tradition of Jesus Christ Superstar as a challenging and transformative theatrical experience.