Glenn Close has been announced as the latest star to take on the role of Herod in the hit London production of Jesus Christ Superstar at Theatre Royal Drury Lane.
Producer Michael Harrison confirmed that the acclaimed stage and screen actor will perform in the role from 4 to 9 January 2027, bringing the production’s London season to a close.
The announcement comes as Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic rock musical continues its extended West End run following a sold-out summer season at the London Palladium. The production now plays at Theatre Royal Drury Lane until 9 January 2027 before embarking on a UK tour from February 2027.
Close is a three-time Emmy, Golden Globe and Tony Award winner whose celebrated career includes roles in Fatal Attraction, Dangerous Liaisons, 101 Dalmatians and Damages. Her stage credits include Tony Award-winning performances in The Real Thing, Death and the Maiden and Sunset Boulevard, where she famously starred as Norma Desmond in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical.
Producer Michael Harrison said: “I am thrilled that we will welcome such an esteemed actor as Glenn Close in the final week that audiences will have to experience Tim Sheader’s spectacular production in London. After a run of magnificent Herods, I am certain Glenn will bring the season at Theatre Royal Drury Lane to a triumphant close, following our London Palladium run where there wasn’t a single empty seat or standing place in the house.”
Director Tim Sheader added: “Wow, what a blast to have Glenn Close Superstar in the house for our final week in London. I can’t wait for her artistry and imagination to meet the show.”
Close joins a roster of guest stars playing Herod throughout the run, including Matt Bomer, Rob Brydon, Reece Shearsmith, Bob The Drag Queen, Michael Ball, Simon Russell Beale, Omid Djalili and Layton Williams.
The production stars Sam Ryder as Jesus, alongside Tyrone Huntley as Judas Iscariot, Desmonda Cathabel as Mary Magdalene and David Thaxton as Pontius Pilate.
Directed by Tim Sheader, with choreography by Drew McOnie and design by Tom Scutt, the production reunites the creative team behind the award-winning 2016 Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre staging.
Following the conclusion of its London engagement, Jesus Christ Superstar will launch a UK tour beginning in Manchester in February 2027, with Sam Ryder continuing in the title role.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
