Cynthia Erivo, known for her role as Elphaba in Wicked and for melting down at fans over perceived sleights is once again at the center of controversy as she takes on the title role of Jesus Christ in the Hollywood Bowl’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar this summer.
While Erivo seems thrilled about the casting, many Christians are not.
Cynthia Erivo in an interview – YouTube, CBS Sunday Morning
The Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice musical will run from August 1 to August 3 at the venue, with Sergio Trujillo directing and choreographing and Stephen Oremus serving as musical director and conductor. Additional casting has yet to be announced, but Erivo’s casting alone has sparked outrage among many believers who see this as a blatant disregard for their faith.
Cynthia Erivo, who previously played Mary Magdalene in the all-female concept album Jesus Christ Superstar: She Is Risen in 2020, will now take on the role of Jesus Christ, performing some of the musical’s most powerful songs like “Hosanna,” “The Last Supper,” and “Gethsemane.” For many Christians, having their Messiah race swapped, gender swapped, and portrayed by an actress who is also in a same-sex relationship is deeply offensive.
In a time when many feel that Hollywood is more focused on pushing controversial casting decisions than respecting cultural and religious traditions, Erivo’s casting feels like another instance of prioritizing agendas over authenticity. The decision to gender-swap Jesus Christ, a figure revered by billions, is viewed by many as a direct affront to their faith. Furthermore, Erivo’s history of centering every project around her own identity only adds fuel to the fire.
Cynthia Erivo performing at a concert – YouTube, Capital Concerts
This is not the first time Erivo has faced backlash. She recently sparked controversy when she harshly responded to a fan over a Wicked poster mishap, demonstrating a thin-skinned approach to any criticism. Now, taking on the role of Jesus, Erivo seems to be courting controversy rather than focusing on honoring the material and the audience it was originally created for.
Many Christians are left asking: why does Hollywood insist on altering sacred figures to fit modern agendas? The casting of Jesus Christ is not just another role; it is a depiction of a figure deeply integral to the Christian faith. Swapping both gender and race in this portrayal, and casting someone whose personal lifestyle clashes with traditional Christian beliefs, is seen by many as a deliberate provocation.
Erivo may be excited, writing on Instagram, “Just a little busy this summer. Can’t wait,” but for many Christians, this announcement is not something to celebrate.
Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba in the trailer for the Wicked movie, YouTube – Universal Pictures
With tensions already high over Hollywood’s repeated disregard for faith-based audiences, this move feels like yet another slap in the face. The question remains: when will Hollywood learn to respect its audiences rather than alienate them with these controversial decisions?
