CONTROVERSY & ACCALIM: Cynthia Erivo's Jaunt As Jesus In 'Jesus Christ Superstar Rattles Christians
By Mona Austin
A Black, gay or woman playing Jesus would be co controversial enough. Casting someone who is all three --Black, gay and a woman -- was provacative. Tony winner Cynthia Erivo got the part in Andrew Lloyd Weber's (“Cats,” “The Phantom of the Opera” and “Sunset Boulevard”) latest iteration of "Jesus Christ Superstar"and some Christian Conservatives are lambasting the unconventional portrayal.
The openly queer actress said this about taking the role: "Why not? You can’t please everyone. It is legitimately a three-day performance at the Hollywood Bowl where I get to sing my face off. So hopefully they will come and realize, ‘Oh, it’s a musical, the gayest place on Earth.’”
Christian actor Kevin Sorbo posted a clip of Erivo in costume—wearing a crown of thorns and arms outstretched—calling the performance “demonic.” His comments echoed broader criticism from some conservative circles who objected to a queer woman portraying Jesus.
The musucal has long stirred debate for its edgy portrayal of biblical events, but the latest revival—a three-night concert production at the Hollywood Bowl —has sparked fresh controversy and acclaim alike.
The production also featured Adam Lambert, an openly gay singer, as Judas Iscariot. Directed by Sergio Trujillo and conducted by Stephen Oremus, the show was praised by critics for its electrifying performances and arena-style staging.
Despite the backlash, the show was a critical and commercial success, selling out all three nights and earning standing ovations. Andrew Lloyd Webber himself praised the cast, saying:
Responding to the positive feedback Mr. Weber said, “It is particularly exciting to see that our idea of a woman playing Jesus has been so embraced and understood”.
Erivo, a Catholic told Elle magazine last year:
“I have a deep belief that God makes people as they’re meant to be.”
The show ran for three days at the Hollywood Bowl in early August.
The Los Angeles Times referrd to Erivo's performance as "heaven sent."
No matter what position people take on the moral and social issues associated with the actresse playing Jesus Christ, her talent is undeniable.