Josh Gad Drops Out of Cynthia Erivo-Led “Jesus Christ Superstar” Due to COVID

Josh Gad has announced that he will no longer be joining Cynthia Erivo in the production of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ due to contracting COVID. The Hollywood Bowl event, which was set for Friday, Aug. 1 and was highly anticipated, will no longer feature Gad as King Herod alongside Erivo as Jesus and Adam Lambert as Judas. In an Instagram statement, the Tony-nominated actor expressed his disappointment at having to pull out of the show due to testing positive for COVID. He highlighted his respect for the safety of the cast members and the caution required in such a situation, emphasizing that his absence was a necessary precaution.

Gad shared his heartfelt message with fans, expressing his regret at missing out on the opportunity to perform in ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ at the prestigious venue. Despite his disappointment, he assured his followers that the show would still be a remarkable experience for those in attendance. The actor’s withdrawal from the production came just 48 hours before the opening weekend, leaving organizers to scramble for a replacement for the role of King Herod. As Gad expressed his sorrow over missing the chance to grace the Hollywood Bowl stage, his fans were left disappointed but understanding of the circumstances.

The Hollywood Bowl and Playbill had initially announced Gad’s participation in the production, generating excitement among fans and theatre enthusiasts. Gad had been actively sharing snippets of his rehearsals and preparations for the musical, giving followers a glimpse behind the scenes. His camaraderie with cast members like Adam Lambert and Milo Manheim was evident in his social media posts, adding to the anticipation surrounding the show. However, Gad’s positive COVID test meant that his journey with ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ had to come to an unfortunate halt.

Although Josh Gad will not be able to share the stage with Cynthia Erivo in ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’, he still maintains a special connection with his fellow performer. Their shared background in musical theatre and upcoming collaboration in Jon M. Chu’s adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ ‘Oh, the Places You’ll Go!’ adds an intriguing layer to their professional relationship. Gad’s eagerness to work with Erivo, as well as other talented individuals involved in the project, indicates a promising future for their creative partnership.

As fans and industry insiders come to terms with Gad’s absence from the production, the show must go on with a replacement for the role of King Herod. The unforeseen circumstances leading to Gad’s withdrawal serve as a reminder of the ongoing impact of COVID on live performances and events. Despite the setback, the team behind ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ remains focused on delivering an unforgettable experience for audiences, ensuring that the show maintains its high level of quality and artistry. The resilience and adaptability of the theatre community are once again put to the test, emphasizing the importance of safety protocols and contingency plans in the ever-evolving landscape of live entertainment.