Cynthia Erivo's Jesus Christ Superstar Role Called 'Demonic', Gets Backlash From Conservative Christians

The casting of Cynthia Erivo, a Black, queer British actress, as Jesus Christ in a Hollywood Bowl production of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Jesus Christ Superstarhas drawn strong criticism from some conservative Christian groups in the United States.

Critics have labelled the three‑night run 'blasphemous' and 'demonic.' Supporters argue that the production reflects the long‑standing tradition of reinterpretation in musical theatre and the show's original willingness to challenge convention.

Criticism from Christian Conservatives

Prominent conservative commentators in the US have condemned the casting. Actor Kevin Sorbo described it as 'demonic' in a video post, while political commentator David Harris Jr voiced a similar objection. Some focused on Erivo's appearance, which includes a shaved head and long nails, suggesting the imagery evoked occult themes.

One social media user called the performance a 'mockery of God's word', while activist Kristan Hawkins accused it of 'intentional blasphemy' designed to insult Christian belief. The reaction has been most prominent among American evangelical audiences.

Erivo Responds and Supporters Speak Out

In an interview with Billboard, Erivo dismissed the criticism and questioned why she should not play the role. She reminded critics that the production is a musical, not a theological statement, and encouraged people to see the show before making judgements.

The actress, who has won a Tony Award for The Color Purple and appeared in films including Harriet, said she hoped audiences would focus on the artistry of the production rather than the controversy. Adam Lambert, who plays Judas in the staging, said the aim was to provoke thought and challenge expectations, arguing that Jesus' teachings transcend gender and identity.

A History of Dispute

This is not the first time Jesus Christ Superstar has attracted backlash from Christian groups. When the rock opera premiered on Broadway in 1971, critics, including leaders of both Christian and Jewish communities, accused it of being blasphemous for depicting Judas as a sympathetic figure and emphasising Christ's humanity over divinity, according to The Washington Post.

Over the decades, reinterpretations, including changes in casting, staging and symbolic imagery, have continued to provoke controversy, especially when they diverge from traditional religious representations, Christianity Today reported.

Theological Perspective

Dr Jonny Rowlands, a theology lecturer, has noted in The Times that Christian scripture includes feminine imagery of Christ, such as the metaphor of a 'mother hen' and nurturing symbolism in Revelation, suggesting that some biblical passages leave room for non‑traditional interpretations of the role.

In the UK, critics highlight that theatre audiences are accustomed to gender‑blind and identity‑blind casting, Varsity Online reported. Shakespeare productions, for instance, regularly feature women in roles originally written for men, reflecting a wider theatrical convention and audience expectation.

An Ongoing Debate

Cynthia Erivo's performance as Jesus is scheduled for a limited run at the Hollywood Bowl, but the debate is likely to continue long after the final curtain call. For her supporters, the casting represents an inclusive and artistically valid interpretation of a classic work. For detractors, it is an unwelcome departure from religious tradition.

Whether audiences embrace or reject the portrayal, the production has reignited a conversation that has followed Jesus Christ Superstar for more than half a century. Reinterpretation can go far before it clashes irreconcilably with the beliefs of its viewers.