A pop star from Essex who rose to fame with his performance at the Eurovision Song Contest is making his West End stage debut.
Sam Ryder, from Maldon, has been announced to star in a new production coming to the London Palladium in 2026.
He will take on the role of Jesus in Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s Jesus Christ Superstar, which will run at the theatre from June 20 to September 5 next year.
Sam said about his debut: “I’m so excited to be part of one of the biggest institutions in musical theatre the world’s ever known at The London Palladium in the West End.
“I’m honoured to take on this responsibility as I follow in the footsteps of rock vocal titans like Ian Gillan and John Farnham.
“I can’t wait to immerse myself in the world of Jesus Christ Superstar in 2026.”
Further casting is yet to be announced.
The show will be led by director Timothy Sheader and choreographer Drew McOnie, with the design being led by Tom Scutt.
Their production of Jesus Christ Superstar was awarded the Olivier Award for best musical revival in 2017 and the Evening Standard Award for best musical in 2016.
Producer Michael Harrison praised Sam as “a true superstar”.
Tickets for the show will go on sale on November 26.
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