Richard Kind is set to join the major West End revival of The Producers, stepping into the role of Max Bialystock for seven weeks at the Garrick Theatre.
He begins performances on 23 March, taking over temporarily while Andy Nyman departs to open the world premiere of The Psychic at York Theatre Royal. Nyman returns to the production from 11 May.
Kind previously played Max Bialystock on Broadway in 2004, taking over from Nathan Lane, and later reprised the role in the 2012 Hollywood Bowl production.
Richard Kind said today, “Mel Brooks is a genius. Every time I come back to The Producers, I’m reminded what a comic masterpiece it is – the jokes, the infectious energy of the story, the sheer audacity of it all – it still feels as fresh as ever. I’m so thrilled to be returning to the iconic role of Max Bialystock; this is a hat trick for me – they just can’t keep me away! I’ll be sure to keep Andy’s fedora warm for his return, and I’m excited to dive into rehearsals. It’s good to be back.”
Mel Brooks added, “When I learned we needed an actor to briefly fill Andy’s nearly unfillable shoes, only one name came to mind. Richard Kind is a true force of nature—he’s got enough talent and energy to fill two stages! I am beyond thrilled for audiences at The Garrick to experience his Max Bialystock. London, get ready; you’re in for a hilarious ride!”
Kind returns to the London stage having previously appeared as Nathan Detroit in Guys and Dolls at the Phoenix Theatre. His extensive theatre work includes The Big Knife, The Tale of the Allergist’s Wife, Candide, and Bounce, along with numerous film and television credits including Argo, A Serious Man, Spin City, Only Murders in the Building, and voice roles in A Bug’s Life, Inside Out, and Toy Story 3.
The West End revival of The Producers transferred from the Menier Chocolate Factory after its acclaimed, sold-out run in late 2024. Directed by Patrick Marber, with music and lyrics by Mel Brooks and a book by Brooks and Thomas Meehan, the production has received widespread praise, including five-star notices from The Times and the Evening Standard.
The cast includes Marc Antolin as Leo Bloom, Trevor Ashley, Raj Ghatak, Harry Morrison, Joanna Woodward, and a full ensemble company. Andy Nyman continues as Max Bialystock until March and returns in May following his temporary departure.
The Producers continues its run at the Garrick Theatre, booking until 19 September 2026.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
