Samantha Barks is set to return to the West End production of Les Misérables, playing the role of Fantine for eight performances only.
The appearances will take place at the Sondheim Theatre from 18 to 23 May 2026, ahead of Barks joining the cast of the Les Misérables Arena World Tour.
Cameron Mackintosh welcomed Barks back to the production, where she was first discovered during the I’d Do Anything television search for Oliver!.
Barks went on to play Éponine in both the West End and the 25th Anniversary Concert at the O2 Arena, later reprising the role in the Oscar-winning film adaptation.
She has since starred in Pretty Woman on Broadway, Frozen in London, and the world premiere of The Greatest Showman.
Samantha Barks said: “Returning to Les Misérables in the West End feels like a true full-circle moment. Sixteen years ago, I first stepped into Éponine’s shoes, with so much still to learn. Now, I return with a deeper understanding of the story and its heart, to take on Fantine— I always wanted to return one day as Fantine, and it feels even more meaningful in this chapter of my life as a mother.”
She added: “London is where it all began for me, and to be back here telling this story again is incredibly special for me.”
During her run, Barks will perform alongside Ian McIntosh as Jean Valjean, Sam Oladeinde as Javert, Harry Hepple as Thénardier, Lizzie Bea as Madame Thénardier, Thiago Phillip Felizardo as Marius, Izzi Levine as Cosette, Jess Folley as Éponine and Joe Griffiths-Brown as Enjolras.
Martha Kirby will resume the role of Fantine from 25 May.
Now celebrating over 40 years in the West End, Les Misérables remains one of the most successful musicals of all time, having been seen by more than 150 million people worldwide.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
